Lamar Jackson eyeing Browns return in Week 6: AFC North roundup

There were no games on the AFC North slate yesterday, but the lead-up to Week 6 was anything but quiet, with Lamar Jackson’s health, Ravens roster moves and the Steelers’ international trip all in the spotlight.

Ravens: optimism on Jackson, questions around Bateman

According to CBS Sports, Lamar Jackson has a “realistic chance” to return in Week 6 against the Cleveland Browns after the ankle injury that kept him out versus the Atlanta Falcons. Baltimore expects to know more by midweek, per the same report.

While Jackson’s status dominates the conversation, the passing game is drawing attention for another reason. Pro Football Rumors relays that an ESPN insider is “keeping an eye” on wide receiver Rashod Bateman’s availability ahead of the trade deadline, suggesting he could emerge as a trade candidate.

In terms of depth, the Ravens made a smaller move as well. Per Pro Football Rumors, Baltimore added wide receiver Chris Moore to its practice squad. The site also reports that wideout Ja’Kobi Lane, who has been on injured reserve for four games, is expected to have his 21-day practice window opened this week. Head coach Jesse Minter even indicated, according to Pro Football Rumors, that Lane could suit up against the Browns on Sunday.

Browns: injury returns and Shedeur Sanders’ future

For the 3-2 Cleveland Browns, potential reinforcements are on the way. Pro Football Rumors notes that running back Dylan Sampson has been designated for return from injured reserve, an important procedural step toward getting back on the field.

At quarterback, Pro Football Rumors reports that Shedeur Sanders has hired an agent after previously operating without one. The same outlet adds that exploring a trade is on his radar, while stopping short of suggesting a deal is imminent.

Steelers’ France game on as planned; quiet day for Bengals

The 3-2 Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing for their showcase game against the New Orleans Saints in France. CBS Sports reports that the league has addressed safety concerns tied to ongoing protests in Paris, but the NFL still plans to play the game as originally scheduled.

On the field, there were no major developments for Pittsburgh, though CBS Sports notes that analyst Pete Prisco is calling for an upset in Week 6, picking the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to beat the Steelers.

The Cincinnati Bengals (3-2) stayed out of the headlines over the past 24 hours, but remain firmly in the chase behind the 4-1 Ravens in a division where every injury update, roster tweak and international trip could tilt the balance as the season unfolds.