Lamar Jackson's tenure in the NFL, now spanning seven seasons, has been marked by exceptional highs and some notable interruptions due to illnesses. A mainstay in the Baltimore Ravens lineup, the dual-threat quarterback has showcased resilience and an unwavering commitment to his team despite periodic absences from practice sessions due to various ailments.
Since being drafted by the Ravens in 2018, Jackson has missed at least one practice each season due to a non-COVID-related illness. The tally stands at 12 missed practices, with some of the most significant absences happening during crucial times. This year, Jackson was notably absent for four practices during the first week of training camp. In 2021, he missed three sessions, and in the 2019 and 2020 seasons, he missed one practice each. The trend continued into 2022 and 2023, with Jackson missing one practice each year.
Early Career and Illness Challenges
The challenges began early for Jackson. Just three days before his much-anticipated first NFL start in 2018, Jackson was hospitalized for severe stomach pains. Despite this setback, he demonstrated remarkable fortitude. Jackson not only made it to the game but also led the Ravens to a 24-21 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. In doing so, he became the first quarterback in the Super Bowl era to rush for 100 yards in his first career start, a testament to his athletic prowess and determination.
Response and Resilience
Jackson himself has acknowledged the frequency of his health issues since joining the NFL. Reflecting on his time at Louisville, he remarked, "Man, I'll be thinking that sometimes because, at Louisville, I never got sick. I never was sick, but it comes and goes." Despite the unpredictability of these illnesses, Jackson has maintained a positive outlook and a focus on recovery. "You really never know when the bug hits you, but I got hit with a bug. I'm good now," he said, indicating his readiness to bounce back each time.
Thorough Medical Attention
The Ravens, under the guidance of Head Coach John Harbaugh, have taken Jackson's health concerns seriously, ensuring comprehensive medical evaluations. "Lamar gets tested ... all of our guys get tested thoroughly, especially when you're sick. So, they look at every possibility," Harbaugh explained, underscoring the team's commitment to player health and safety.
Aiming for Greater Heights
Despite these setbacks, Jackson's performance on the field has been nothing short of stellar. He has earned the NFL MVP title twice in his first six seasons, a rare and commendable achievement. However, Jackson's aspirations extend beyond individual accolades. He has been vocal about his ultimate goal since the day he was drafted. "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.
Jackson's commitment to the game and his team, coupled with his extraordinary talent, has made him a pivotal figure in the Ravens organization. While his journey has had its share of health challenges, his resilience and determination continue to inspire both his teammates and fans. As Jackson and the Ravens look forward to future seasons, there is no doubt that his eyes remain firmly set on leading his team to championship glory, cementing his legacy not just as an MVP, but as a champion.