The Unpredictable Journey of Lamar Jackson: Talents and Trials
Since his entry into the NFL in 2018, Lamar Jackson has become a cornerstone for the Baltimore Ravens, captivating fans with his explosive athleticism and impressive feats on the field. However, Jackson's journey has been marked not only by his accolades but also by an unusual pattern of illnesses that have sidelined him at critical times.
Jackson's health hiccups began almost immediately upon his arrival in the NFL. Just three days before his first NFL start in 2018, Jackson was hospitalized for severe stomach pains, a potentially alarming situation for any player about to debut. Nevertheless, Jackson showed resilience, leading the Ravens to a 24-21 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. In that game, he became the first quarterback in the Super Bowl era to rush for 100 yards in his first career start—a testament to his dual-threat capability.
Despite his on-field success, Jackson's bouts with non-COVID-related illnesses have become a recurring issue for the Ravens. Over seven seasons, Jackson has missed at least one practice each year due to various ailments. “Man, I'll be thinking that sometimes because, at Louisville, I never got sick. I never was sick, but it comes and goes,” Jackson remarked, reflecting on the stark contrast between his collegiate and professional experiences.
Most notably, Jackson has missed a total of 12 practices due to illness. In 2021, he sat out three practices, while in 2019 and 2020, he missed one practice each year. The trend continued into the 2022 and 2023 seasons, with Jackson again missing a practice in each campaign. This year's training camp was no different, as Jackson was absent for four practices in the first week alone.
Head Coach John Harbaugh has been vigilant about Jackson's health. “Lamar gets tested ... all of our guys get tested thoroughly, especially when you're sick. So, they look at every possibility,” Harbaugh stated, underscoring the team's commitment to ensuring their star player's well-being.
These disruptions, however, have not dampened Jackson's drive or performance. He has not only led his team with remarkable consistency but also achieved individual milestones that have cemented his status as one of the league's elite quarterbacks. Jackson has been named NFL MVP twice in his first six seasons, a rare accomplishment that highlights his impact on the game.
Jackson himself remains focused on his ultimate goal. “It's been the first checkbox for me since 2018. I said that April 26th, whenever I was drafted, I said that, and I meant that. That's the highest level of this game we play. So, you got to go out a champion. That's what I want to be labeled as a champion—not just MVP here and there. I want to be a champion,” Jackson asserted.
Despite the challenges, Jackson's dedication and resilience continue to inspire both his teammates and fans. “You really never know when the bug hits you, but I got hit with a bug. I'm good now,” Jackson said, maintaining a positive outlook amid the unpredictability of his health issues.
Jackson's career thus far serves as a compelling narrative of triumph in the face of adversity. His ability to bounce back from illness and deliver game-changing performances defines him as more than just an athlete; it marks him as a true competitor. As the 2023 season progresses, all eyes will inevitably be on Jackson, not just for his dazzling plays but for his indomitable spirit.