Lamar Jackson: A Dual Threat Quarterback Battling Illnesses
Since entering the NFL in 2018, Lamar Jackson has not only made a name for himself as a dynamic quarterback but has also faced a recurring battle with non-COVID-related illnesses. Despite these setbacks, Jackson has continued to demonstrate his resilience and exceptional talent on the field, making history and leading the Baltimore Ravens to significant victories.
Over the past seven seasons, Jackson has missed at least one practice each year due to a variety of ailments, tallying up to 12 missed practices. The most recent instance was this year's training camp, where Jackson was absent for four practices, raising concerns among fans and analysts. In a reflection on his frequent illnesses, Jackson revealed, "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 issues are not a new phenomenon. Just three days before his first NFL start in 2018, Jackson was hospitalized with severe stomach pains. However, this did not deter his performance when he took the field against the Cincinnati Bengals, leading the Ravens to a 24-21 victory. In this game, Jackson became the first quarterback in the Super Bowl era to rush for 100 yards in his first career start, setting the tone for his dual-threat capabilities.
John Harbaugh, the Ravens' head coach, 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 explained, highlighting the team's commitment to ensuring their star quarterback is in peak condition. Fortunately for Jackson, the rigorous testing and medical attention have allowed him to bounce back quickly on most occasions. "You really never know when the bug hits you, but I got hit with a bug. I'm good now," Jackson said, reassuring his supporters.
The missed practices, while concerning, have not overshadowed Jackson's accomplishments. He has been named the NFL MVP twice within his first six seasons, an accolade that few can boast. His dynamic playmaking ability, both through the air and on the ground, has earned him comparisons to some of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
Despite his personal battles with illness, Jackson remains focused on his ultimate goal of achieving greatness on the football field. "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 declared, underscoring his determination to lead his team to a Super Bowl victory.
Jackson's journey is a testament to his resilience and dedication to the sport. As he continues to navigate the challenges of maintaining his health, both he and the Ravens organization remain optimistic about what the future holds. His combination of athleticism, leadership, and perseverance ensures that he will continue to be a central figure in the NFL for years to come.
Indeed, the narrative of Lamar Jackson's career is one of overcoming obstacles and pushing the boundaries of what a quarterback can achieve. As fans and analysts alike watch his every move, one thing remains certain: Jackson's impact on the game of football is undeniable, and his story is far from over.