Top 7 Lamar Jackson Insights for Ravens Admirers
Lamar Jackson is one of the most compelling athletes in the NFL today. His impact on the Baltimore Ravens—and the game of football—has been transformative. Let’s explore his journey, one that silenced critics and inspired countless others through sheer resilience and determination.
From Rookie to Franchise Cornerstone
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When the Ravens drafted Jackson in 2018 as the 32nd overall pick, many expected him to spend a quiet rookie season learning behind veteran Joe Flacco. Instead, by midseason, Jackson took over as the starting quarterback and led the Ravens to a 6–1 finish. This wasn’t a carefully planned transition—it was a necessity after Flacco’s injury, and Jackson responded with his all.
Reinventing the Quarterback Role
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In a league that rewards pocket passers, Jackson’s ability to dominate with both his legs and arm sets him apart. In 2019, he became the first quarterback to throw for over 3,000 yards while rushing for 1,000 yards in a single season. His mobility forces defenses to rethink their strategies.
The MVP Season
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Winning MVP is rare; winning it unanimously is nearly unheard of. Jackson’s 2019 season remains one of the most impressive campaigns in NFL history. He led the league with 36 touchdown passes while setting the single-season rushing record for a quarterback with 1,206 yards. These numbers earned him the MVP award in a unanimous vote.
A Legacy of Perfect Games
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Most quarterbacks might go their entire careers without a perfect passer rating. Jackson has done it four times. His most notable performance came in 2019 against the Miami Dolphins, where he threw for five touchdowns and completed over 85% of his passes.
The Confidence to Stay the Course
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Despite his early success in the regular season, Jackson faced challenges in his first two playoff appearances. Critics questioned whether his style of play could succeed in high-stakes games. However, his 2021 playoff win against the Tennessee Titans, where he rushed for 136 yards and led a comeback, silenced many doubters and showed his growth as a postseason player.
The Louisville Heisman Legacy
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Before his NFL career, Jackson was a student at the University of Louisville. In 2016, he became the youngest player to win the Heisman Trophy, thanks to his incredible 51 total touchdowns that season. Jackson’s time in college was all about setting himself apart as a quarterback who could outthink and outmaneuver his opponents.
A Childhood Shaped by Resilience
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Jackson’s upbringing in Pompano Beach, Florida, shaped his work ethic and resilience. Losing his father and grandmother on the same day at age eight was a pivotal moment in his life. He was then raised by his mother, Felicia Jones, and grew up in a tough neighborhood where football became both an escape and a source of discipline.
A Custom-Built Offense
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When Jackson became the Ravens’ starting quarterback, the team didn’t try to fit him into an existing system. Instead, they built an offense around his strengths. This included a run-heavy scheme and play-action strategies designed to capitalize on his dual-threat capabilities. The result was a team that led the league in rushing for three consecutive seasons.
Breaking Rushing Records With Ease
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In 2024, Jackson became the NFL’s all-time leading rusher among quarterbacks, surpassing Michael Vick. What makes this achievement even more remarkable is the efficiency with which he reached this milestone—accomplishing it in significantly fewer games than his predecessor.
A Playoff Performer Who Learns and Grows
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Jackson’s playoff journey hasn’t always been smooth, but it’s been educational. His performances in recent years clearly show a player who adapts to high-pressure situations. In 2020, he was named the AFC Offensive Player of the Week for his performance against the Cleveland Browns in a seasonal opener.
A Role Model for Aspiring Athletes
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Jackson’s rise to NFL stardom has inspired countless young athletes, particularly those who see themselves in his unorthodox style. He’s the only quarterback with multiple seasons of over 1,000 rushing yards and has consistently proven that unconventional styles can thrive at the highest level.
The Youngest QB to Start a Playoff Game
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At just 21 years old, Jackson stepped onto the playoff stage with a composure that was beyond his age. While the Ravens didn’t win that game, it nonetheless marked the beginning of a career that’s already seen its share of postseason success.
A Player for the People
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Jackson has remained connected to his roots by investing in his hometown of Pompano Beach through various philanthropic efforts. He purchased a local soul food restaurant, frequently participates in youth football events, and uses his platform to give back to the community that supported him.
A Historic Contract
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In 2023, Jackson signed a five-year, $260 million contract with $185 million guaranteed, briefly making him the highest-paid player in NFL history. Beyond the dollar figures, the deal showed the Ravens’ commitment to Jackson as their franchise centerpiece.
The Future Is Wide Open
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What’s next for Lamar Jackson? If his track record is any indication, it’s more milestones, more unforgettable plays, and perhaps even another MVP award. As he continues to develop as both a passer and a leader, one thing is clear: Jackson’s best years are still ahead of him.