In the seven years since Lamar Jackson electrified the NFL, his presence on the field has been both a blessing and a source of curiosity. Standing out as an elite talent, Jackson has repeatedly demonstrated his resilience and capability, even as he battled several unexpected ailments.
Throughout his career with the Baltimore Ravens, Jackson's physical health has been as much a focus as his on-field prowess. Surprisingly, he has been sidelined by various non-COVID-related illnesses, missing at least one practice per season since his debut in 2018. In total, Jackson has missed 12 practices due to these bouts of sickness.
Reflecting on his health, Jackson himself pondered, "Man, I'll be thinking that sometimes because, at Louisville, I never got sick. I never was sick, but it comes and goes." Indeed, the unpredictability of his health issues raises an interesting point of discussion among fans and analysts alike.
A Rocky Start with a Stunning Performance
Jackson's entry into the NFL was anything but smooth. Just days before his first career start in 2018, he was hospitalized with severe stomach pains. Yet, in a testament to his formidable spirit, he led the Ravens to a 24-21 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. Moreover, he set a remarkable milestone, becoming the first quarterback in the Super Bowl era to rush for 100 yards in his debut game.
Persistent Health Concerns
The subsequent seasons mirrored his debut year in terms of health struggles. Each year since 2018, Jackson has missed at least one practice due to illness, a pattern that leaves fans and team staff concerned yet accepting. In the 2021 season, he missed three practices, and the pattern continued into 2022 and 2023 with a single missed practice each year.
Most recently, during the opening week of this year's training camp, Jackson missed four practices, a reminder that his health remains an unpredictable factor. "You really never know when the bug hits you, but I got hit with a bug. I'm good now," Jackson reassured, emphasizing his readiness despite these setbacks.
Team Trust and Thorough Checks
John Harbaugh, the Ravens' head coach, addressed the constant scrutiny over Jackson's health. "Lamar gets tested ... all of our guys get tested thoroughly, especially when you're sick. So, they look at every possibility." This comprehensive approach underscores the team's commitment to not only Jackson's well-being but also to the readiness and resilience of the entire roster.
Beyond the MVP Titles
Despite his health hurdles, Jackson’s achievements on the field are indisputable. Over his first six seasons, he has been named the NFL MVP twice, solidifying his status as an NFL powerhouse. Yet, Jackson's ambitions stretch further. "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 expressed with determination.
Jackson's aspiration to be labeled as a champion reflects a broader vision — one where individual accolades pale in comparison to team glory. This focus is a driving force for Jackson, setting a high bar for his performance and leadership. As he continues to stride forward, the Ravens and their fans remain hopeful that his health, allied with his talent, will lead to the ultimate success.
Indeed, Lamar Jackson's journey in the NFL is a compelling mix of brilliance and resilience. While his health may be a recurring challenge, his resolve and exceptional talent ensure that he remains a pivotal figure in the league. His story is one of perseverance, marked by remarkable highs and occasional setbacks, but always defined by an unyielding drive to succeed.