The Pittsburgh Steelers entered the 2026 season knowing that winning the AFC North would be no easy task. The division has consistently featured intense rivalries, and the Baltimore Ravens have been one of Pittsburgh's biggest obstacles for years. Head Coach Mike McCarthy understands the importance of winning divisional games, especially with the potential playoff implications that come with them. However, something completely unexpected has occurred that could drastically change the outlook of the division.
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Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike McCarthy stands on he field alongside general manager Omar Khan as the two watch the team practice during 2026 training camp at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, PA.
Pittsburgh has plenty of reasons to feel optimistic about its chances moving forward. The Steelers have a talented roster, and General Manager Omar Khan has worked tirelessly to put together a group capable of competing for a championship. The team must continue winning games to accomplish that goal.
One of Pittsburgh's biggest rivals, however, has received devastating news. The Ravens have been forced to navigate several difficult situations throughout the 2026 campaign, but their latest setback could be the most significant yet. Baltimore's chances of competing for the AFC North crown may have taken an enormous hit.
According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, Ravens superstar quarterback Lamar Jackson is expected to undergo surgery on his injured thumb. Baltimore Head Coach Jesse Minter confirmed that Jackson will be placed on Injured Reserve, and there is legitimate concern that his season could be over.
"Ravens QB Lamar Jackson will have surgery on his thumb and will go on Injured Reserve, per coach Jesse Minter. 'We'll see' if it's season ending," Rapoport reported.
This is a massive development for the Steelers. Jackson has been one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in football since entering the league, and his ability to make plays with both his arm and legs has consistently created problems for opposing defenses.
Baltimore now faces the difficult challenge of remaining competitive without its most important player. Jackson's absence will force the coaching staff to make significant adjustments, and the Ravens could struggle to maintain their offensive production.
The timing is particularly brutal for Baltimore. Jackson had already missed time with an ankle injury before returning to face the Buffalo Bills on Sunday. Unfortunately, his return was short-lived, and the Ravens now have another serious issue to address.
For Pittsburgh, the situation creates an opportunity that few could have anticipated entering November. The Steelers certainly cannot control what happens to their rivals, but Jackson's absence could make the path to a division title considerably easier.
There is no guarantee that Baltimore will completely fall apart without its starting quarterback. The Ravens have other talented players, including Derrick Henry, who can help carry the offensive workload. Nevertheless, replacing a two-time NFL MVP is an incredibly difficult assignment.
Jackson's placement on Injured Reserve (IR) means he will miss at least four games. If the injury ultimately requires a longer recovery period, Baltimore could find itself without its offensive leader for the remainder of the regular season. That possibility should have the Steelers paying close attention. Pittsburgh has its own responsibilities, and McCarthy cannot allow his players to become distracted by what is happening elsewhere.
The Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns also remain part of the AFC North picture, meaning there is no room for complacency. Still, the significance of Jackson's injury cannot be overstated. Baltimore has relied heavily on his unique abilities for years, and opposing teams will now have an opportunity to approach the Ravens differently.
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Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith (56) applies pressure to Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) during the first half at Acrisure Stadium.
The Steelers have spent considerable resources attempting to build a roster that can compete with the AFC's best teams. Khan has made several aggressive decisions, while McCarthy has been tasked with getting the most out of the talent available.
Now, an unexpected development involving their biggest rival could help Pittsburgh accomplish something that has proven difficult in recent years. The Steelers have not won the AFC North since 2020. Ending that drought would be a significant accomplishment for McCarthy in his first season leading the team. Jackson's injury certainly does not guarantee that will happen, but the circumstances surrounding the division have changed dramatically.
Steelers Have Golden Opportunity After Ravens' Devastating News
Pittsburgh must take advantage of the situation without overlooking any opponent. The Ravens could struggle without Jackson, but the Steelers cannot afford to assume that Baltimore will simply disappear from the division race. McCarthy has an opportunity to guide Pittsburgh toward an AFC North title in his first season. That would be an impressive accomplishment, especially considering how competitive the division has been.
The uncertainty surrounding Jackson's future could have serious consequences for Baltimore. Meanwhile, the Steelers have a chance to strengthen their position and potentially separate themselves from a longtime rival.
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