Since his dynamic entry into the NFL seven seasons ago, Lamar Jackson has proven to be an enigmatic figure on the field for the Baltimore Ravens. While his extraordinary athleticism and game-changing plays have drawn admiration, Jackson's career has also been marked by a series of perplexing illnesses that have repeatedly sidelined him.
From the moment Jackson was drafted in 2018, he expressed a burning ambition to reach the pinnacle of football. "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 affirmed with the conviction that has defined his career trajectory.
Despite Jackson's unwavering dedication, his health has often interrupted his journey. Jackson's troubles started almost immediately, as mere days before his first NFL start against the Cincinnati Bengals, he was hospitalized for severe stomach pains. Nevertheless, his resilience shined through when he led the Ravens to a 24-21 victory and set a record by becoming the first quarterback in the Super Bowl era to rush for 100 yards in his debut start.
The enigmatic nature of Jackson's illnesses has been baffling to both fans and professionals. "Man, I'll be thinking that sometimes because, at Louisville, I never got sick. I never was sick, but it comes and goes," Jackson stated, reflecting on the unpredictable pattern of his ailments.
Persistent Challenges
Over his NFL career, Jackson has missed at least one practice each season due to non-COVID-related illnesses. These absences have accumulated to a total of 12 missed practices, a significant number that has raised concerns among the Ravens' coaching staff. Just this year, Jackson was absent for four practices during the first week of training camp, a critical period for the team's preparations.
Head coach John Harbaugh emphasized the team's diligent approach to addressing Jackson's health issues. "Lamar gets tested ... all of our guys get tested thoroughly, especially when you're sick. So, they look at every possibility," Harbaugh assured, highlighting the comprehensive medical evaluations the team conducts to ensure that their star player is fit to perform.
Impact and Determination
Despite these health setbacks, Jackson's on-field performance has remained impressive. His unique ability to balance exceptional rushing with precise passing has earned him the NFL MVP title twice in his first six seasons, solidifying his place among the elite quarterbacks in the league.
However, the unpredictability of his health remains a concern. In the 2021 season alone, Jackson missed three practices. Additionally, he missed one practice each year in 2019, 2020, 2022, and 2023. This sporadic pattern of absences suggests that while Jackson's illnesses are not debilitating, they are indeed disruptive.
Jackson, ever the optimist, has maintained a positive outlook. "You really never know when the bug hits you, but I got hit with a bug. I'm good now," he said, showing a resilient spirit that continues to drive him forward.
Through it all, Jackson's dedication to his craft and his determination to achieve greatness have never wavered. His statement about wanting to be a champion rather than just an MVP echoes his deeper aspirations and commitment to his team and the sport. As he navigates the challenges of his career, Lamar Jackson remains a captivating athlete whose journey is as compelling off the field as it is on it.