Since breaking into the NFL, Lamar Jackson has demonstrated an extraordinary blend of athleticism and leadership. Drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2018, Jackson has not only captivated audiences but also set new records, often re-defining the role of a quarterback. However, his journey has not been without challenges, particularly when it comes to his health.
Recurring Illnesses
Over the course of seven seasons, Jackson has frequently found himself sidelined by illnesses. Interestingly, these ailments have been non-COVID-related but persistent enough to cause disruptions. "Man, I'll be thinking that sometimes because, at Louisville, I never got sick. I never was sick, but it comes and goes," Jackson mused about his health struggles.
Records show that Jackson has missed at least one practice each season since joining the Ravens. In total, he has sat out 12 practices because of various ailments, a statistic that highlights a recurring issue. This has not gone unnoticed by Ravens’ staff and fans alike. As head coach John Harbaugh noted, "Lamar gets tested ... all of our guys get tested thoroughly, especially when you're sick. So, they look at every possibility." Such assurances aim to mitigate concerns, but the pattern remains.
Early Career Challenges
Jackson's health problems began even before his first NFL start. Just three days prior to his debut game in 2018, he was hospitalized for severe stomach pains. Despite this setback, Jackson showed his resilience and talent by leading the Ravens to a 24-21 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. More impressively, he became the first quarterback in the Super Bowl era to rush for 100 yards in his first career start, a historic achievement that set the tone for his career.
Continuous Disruptions
The recurring nature of these illnesses has certainly been a factor in his career. Jackson missed three practices in 2021, and one practice each year in 2019, 2020, 2022, and 2023. These disruptions have added layers of complexity to his preparation and performance. "You really never know when the bug hits you, but I got hit with a bug. I'm good now," Jackson acknowledged, reflecting a sense of resilience and readiness to bounce back.
Achievements and Aspirations
Despite these challenges, Jackson's accolades are nothing short of remarkable. He has been named NFL MVP twice within his first six seasons, underlining his impact on the league. His dual-threat capability as both a passer and a runner has made him a standout player, yet he remains focused on even greater goals. "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 emphasized.
The quest for a championship continues to drive Jackson, serving as a testament to his ambition and dedication. His ability to overcome personal and physical challenges only strengthens his narrative as one of the most compelling athletes in modern football. The attention to his health, alongside his intrinsic talent, will undoubtedly play a crucial role in his journey towards achieving the ultimate goal of a Super Bowl title.
The story of Lamar Jackson is one of extraordinary talent tempered by occasional tribulations. It underscores the resilience required to excel at the highest level and paints a picture of a player who, despite the odds, continues to strive for greatness. As he navigates the challenges ahead, the football world watches in anticipation, eager to witness what comes next for this remarkable athlete.