As the 2025 NFL season progresses, expectations for Lamar Jackson to elevate the Baltimore Ravens to new heights have diminished significantly. Many believed this would be the year Jackson would overcome playoff obstacles, particularly against rivals like Patrick Mahomes. However, with the Ravens currently holding an 8-8 record and lacking the title of AFC North champions, tensions are rising as they prepare for a crucial win-or-go-home game against the Pittsburgh Steelers this Sunday.
The decline in the Ravens” performance has been largely attributed to Jackson”s inconsistency and injuries. He has missed four games this season due to various lower-body issues and has posted career lows in nearly all rushing statistics, accumulating only 340 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns. This drastic drop has led to increased speculation about a potential trade.
Amid this turmoil, analyst Colin Cowherd offered his perspective on the growing conversation around Jackson”s future with Baltimore. Rather than framing the situation as a collapse, Cowherd described it as a pivotal moment for both Jackson and the Ravens.
Cowherd highlighted Jackson”s impressive tenure with the Ravens, noting his achievements since joining the team. “Since he joined the Ravens,” Cowherd remarked, “he has the third-best winning percentage in the league, the number one point differential, and potentially seven playoff appearances, alongside two MVP awards.” He believes that such a track record should allow for a respectful conclusion if a breakup occurs.
Using a metaphor about celebrity divorces, Cowherd emphasized that not all separations need to be contentious. “Not every divorce has to be Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie,” he said, suggesting that a positive partnership could still end amicably. Cowherd expressed that if the Ravens could alleviate Jackson”s projected $74 million cap hit next year, they might consider that option seriously.
In addressing Jackson”s challenges in the postseason, Cowherd noted that the inability to defeat elite quarterbacks like Josh Allen and Mahomes is not solely Jackson”s burden. “Not a lot of people can,” he said, pointing out that sustained playoff success is rare even among the league”s best.
However, Cowherd”s tone shifted when discussing the current relationship dynamics in Baltimore. He referred to reports from local media, including the Baltimore Sun, suggesting that the connection between Jackson and head coach John Harbaugh has felt “a little weird” in recent times. His most telling remark was, “Weird doesn”t age well.”
Without placing blame on either party, Cowherd stressed that this situation is influenced by timing, health, and the team”s trajectory. Jackson”s injuries and the looming cap hit may lead the Ravens to ask tough questions about their future together. “If I could get out from under that cap hit… I would strongly consider it,” Cowherd concluded.
Ultimately, the future between Jackson and the Ravens remains uncertain. Whether they can reconcile or decide that their eight years together have been sufficient, Cowherd posits that the end doesn”t have to be filled with animosity. In football, as in life, even the strongest partnerships may reach their natural conclusion, reminiscent of Tom Brady“s departure from the New England Patriots.
