Concerns are mounting regarding Lamar Jackson and his impact on the Baltimore Ravens as the team struggles to find its footing. Columnist Mike Preston from the Baltimore Sun highlighted the star quarterback”s challenges and their effects on the team”s performance.
Preston noted, “The breakdown of an NFL player”s body is natural, but Jackson could help himself. He doesn”t need to be up late at night playing video games or falling asleep in team meetings.” He emphasized the need for Jackson to invest more time training at the Ravens” facility instead of only attending mandatory minicamps, where he tends to vanish after the first day.
The columnist also pointed out a significant issue: the existence of different rules for Jackson compared to the rest of the team. “That”s why Baltimore practices in the heat of the afternoon instead of in the morning,” he stated. Furthermore, Preston remarked on Jackson”s tendency to withdraw when the team critiques him, describing him as “an overgrown kid in an adult”s body.” This dynamic has reportedly strained the relationship between Jackson and head coach John Harbaugh, with Preston suggesting that the coach is nearing his limit and that exploring trade options for Jackson may be necessary.
Despite being a two-time MVP, Jackson”s current season has not met expectations. He was named a Pro Bowl alternate this week, yet his performance statistics are concerning. His average of 192.6 passing yards per game ranks him 26th in the NFL, and his 28.3 rushing yards per game are the lowest of his eight-year career.
On Tuesday, the Ravens acknowledged Jackson”s difficulties while sidestepping Preston”s critiques. Offensive coordinator Todd Monken stated, “When Lamar has the ball in his hands, he”s electric, and so I know it”s been really difficult for him. It”s been difficult trying to get himself back and not feeling like he”s playing at the level he”s capable of playing at, but I”ve been pleased with how he”s gone about it and gone about his business.”
The Ravens face crucial games against the Packers and Steelers as they fight for a playoff spot, currently sitting with only a 22 percent chance of postseason qualification, contingent upon a victory in Green Bay this week.
