The Curious Case of Lamar Jackson
As I contemplated how I was going to approach this article, I was admittedly at a loss. It was only after listening to a recent episode of the Bill Simmons Podcast, where Bill, Ryen Russillo, and Bryan Curtis discussed the relationship between the media and athletes.
They concluded that audiences would create their own narrative, in the context of an article or soundbite.
So, to quote that guy who launched himself into the air from his snowmobile: “I’m still gonna send it”.
The Talent
I love Lamar Jackson. He is an incredible athlete. And more importantly, a good human being.
Since becoming the full-time starting quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens in 2019, Jackson has helped transform the stagnant offense we saw under Joe Flacco, into one of the most explosive in the league.
Jackson’s ability as a rushing quarterback, and an underrated passer, led to a unanimous MVP award in 2019, passing for 3,127 yards and rushing for an NFL record 1,206 yards at the QB position.
His incredible accomplishments in the regular season are now being shadowed by his failures in the playoffs.
And after a difficult, injury-hit 2021, fans, players, and the media have started to question if Lamar Jackson is a ‘winning player’?
The Shortcomings
As much as I love watching Lamar play, he can be incredibly frustrating at times.
Admittedly, the Ravens offensive scheme is a run-heavy attack, but in the last two seasons, Jackson has finished 22nd and 25th in passing yards, 24th and 29th in passing attempts, while finishing tied for 9th in interceptions in the 2021-2022 season.
If Ravens fans weren’t worried about the interceptions, his fumbles are a cause for concern.
Yes, there are 12 quarterbacks in the last two seasons with more fumbles. But with Jackson’s lack of passing attempts and reliance on his running ability, the fumbles are more of a red flag than some of the quarterbacks ranked ahead of him.
That being said, can the Ravens really consider moving on from one of their most exciting offensive weapons?
The Extension
This leads to the biggest question for Baltimore heading into the 2022-2023 season. Should the team offer an extension to Jackson. And more importantly, how much will it cost?
It may come to benefit Jackson with some of the recent quarterback extensions taking place around the league.
Now that seven quarterbacks are making $40 million a year or more, could Lamar be the next in line for a massive extension?
Without a doubt, I believe he will. If it’s with Baltimore, no one seems to know.
According to Ravens GM Eric DeCosta, “nothing has really changed” surrounding the contract situation of Jackson.
Neither side seems to be in a rush, with both parties seemingly content with waiting until the end of the next season before coming to an agreement.
As a Ravens fan, I hope to see Jackson return as our quarterback of the future. I believe his skill as a passer can only improve if presented with the opportunity, as Jackson finished 29th in passing attempts last season.
The only thing anyone knows right now is that Lamar Jackson is still the starting quarterback heading into the 22/23 season.
He’s got a point to prove, but I’m confident Jackson will get what he deserves.
