In his seven seasons since joining the NFL, Lamar Jackson's journey has been marked by both remarkable achievements and persistent health issues. Despite these setbacks, Jackson's impact on the Baltimore Ravens and the league at large has been undeniable.
Persistent Health Issues
Throughout his career with the Ravens, Jackson has battled numerous non-COVID-related illnesses, missing practices each season since being drafted in 2018. Over the years, he has sat out a total of 12 practices due to various ailments. This year alone, Jackson missed four practices during the first week of training camp. Reflecting on his frequent bouts of sickness, Jackson remarked, "Man, I'll be thinking that sometimes because, at Louisville, I never got sick. I never was sick, but it comes and goes."
Jackson's health challenges began early in his career. Just three days before his first NFL start in 2018, he was hospitalized with severe stomach pains. However, this did not deter him from leading the Ravens to a 24-21 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in that debut game. In an impressive display, he became the first quarterback in the Super Bowl era to rush for 100 yards in his first career start.
Dealing with Illness
Addressing Jackson's recurring health issues, Ravens head coach John Harbaugh highlighted the team's commitment to player health. "Lamar gets tested ... all of our guys get tested thoroughly, especially when you're sick. So, they look at every possibility," Harbaugh stated. Despite these measures, Jackson continued to struggle with illnesses. In 2021, he missed three practices, while in both 2019 and 2020, he sat out one practice each. His health battles persisted in the 2022 and 2023 seasons, with Jackson missing one practice each year due to illness.
Jackson himself remains optimistic about his health. "You really never know when the bug hits you, but I got hit with a bug. I'm good now," he shared, demonstrating his resilience and readiness to bounce back from setbacks.
Unmatched Achievements
Beyond the struggles with his health, Jackson's prowess on the field has consistently shone through. In his first six seasons, Jackson was named the NFL MVP twice, a testament to his exceptional talent and leadership. His dynamic playstyle and ability to make game-changing plays have solidified his reputation as one of the league's premier quarterbacks.
Jackson's ambitions extend beyond individual accolades. Since his draft day, he has been vocal about 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," he declared.
A Bright Future
As Jackson continues to navigate his career, balancing personal health with professional aspirations, his drive remains unwavering. His journey thus far underscores a narrative of resilience, adaptability, and undying passion for the game of football. Despite the challenges that have come his way, Jackson's determination to achieve greatness and his contributions on the field remain a beacon of hope for the Ravens and their fans.
Jackson’s story serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of sports, where health and skill must align for sustained success. His ability to lead, even in the face of adversity, is a hallmark of his career, inspiring fellow athletes and enthusiasts alike. As he strives for that championship title, Lamar Jackson's tale is far from over, with many chapters yet to be written. The league watches with anticipation, ready to witness the next stage of his remarkable journey.