Lamar Jackson Gets Full Week of Practice; Rashod Bateman Still Sidelined

Lamar Jackson has had a full week of practice for the first time since early November and is ready to go for Sunday’s AFC North title game in Pittsburgh.

Jackson missed last week’s game due to a back contusion but was able to return this week at full participation. He’ll wear extra padding around his midsection to protect the contusion.

“We’re excited,” Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken said. “You like having your quarterback out there every day.”

Wide receiver Rashod Bateman has not practiced all week due to an illness, putting his status in question. If Bateman (19 catches, 224 yards, two touchdowns) can’t play, it would mean more snaps for DeAndre Hopkins and Devontez Walker.

Outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy (quad) returned to practice on Friday, giving optimism that he could play Sunday night.

Linebacker Roquan Smith (hamstring) was limited in practice on Wednesday and Thursday, but indicated Thursday when talking to reporters that he’ll play.

Steelers All-Pro pass rusher T.J. Watt is expected to play, but it remains to be seen how big a role he can have in his first game back after suffering a partially collapsed lung.