Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, for a little while this offseason was the highest-paid player in NFL history. After looking like their partnership was over at points early in the offseason, the two sides came to an agreement on a five-year, $260 million contract, keeping him in Baltimore until 2028.
It was a contract that Lamar Jackson earned with his performance in his first five seasons in the NFL. He is arguably the most dynamic player in the league with his athleticism and rushing ability, making him a true dual threat.
This season will be unlike any other with the Ravens, as they are going to open things up in the passing game. After five seasons of having things built around his running ability, Baltimore made a change with their coaching staff.
Greg Roman is no longer the offensive coordinator, as he has been replaced by Todd Monken. Monken has a more modern approach offensively and will be airing it out more. It is something Lamar Jackson has said he is excited about, as the Ravens surrounded him with some new weapons in the passing game.
Wide receivers Nelson Agholor and Odell Beckham Jr. were both signed in free agency. Their first-round pick was used on wide receiver Zay Flowers. That trio, on top of wide receiver Rashod Bateman and tight end Mark Andrews returning, gives Lamar Jackson his most talented group of pass catchers in his career.
While there will be more of a focus on the passing game, opponents cannot forget to keep an eye on Lamar Jackson in the running game. If you give him lanes to run through, he will take full advantage.
Just how dominant is he with his legs? Lamar Jackson has a chance to move up in the NFL’s record books this season as he needs only 492 rushing yards to surpass Randall Cunningham for No. 4 on the all-time quarterback rushing yards list.
The Ravens’ star is currently fifth with 4,437 yards after moving past Steve Young last season. Most impressive about Lamar Jackson’s ascension up the list is how fast he has accomplished it. It has taken him only 70 games to get to where he is; Cunningham played in 161 and Young had 169.
His 63.4 rushing yards per game are by far the most of any quarterback in NFL history. When it is all said and done, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Lamar Jackson atop this list as he is still multiple years away from his prime.
