Since joining the NFL in 2018, Lamar Jackson has swiftly ascended to become one of the league's most electrifying quarterbacks, dazzling fans and frustrating defenses with his unique blend of arm strength and rushing ability. However, his professional journey has been periodically marred by recurring illnesses, an issue that has sidelined him more than a dozen times over seven seasons.
A History of Absences
Jackson’s struggles with non-COVID-related ailments began soon after he was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens. In his rookie season, he faced a health scare just three days before his first NFL start, being hospitalized with severe stomach pains. Despite this, Jackson defied the odds as he took the field against the Cincinnati Bengals and not only played but excelled. He led the Ravens to a 24-21 victory, becoming the first quarterback in the Super Bowl era to rush for 100 yards in his debut start.
Yet, his battle with illnesses continued. Each season since 2018, Jackson has missed at least one practice due to various ailments. In total, he has been sidelined for 12 practices over seven seasons – a worrying trend for both Jackson and the Ravens. The quarterback himself couldn't help but ponder on this anomaly. “Man, I'll be thinking that sometimes because, at Louisville, I never got sick. I never was sick, but it comes and goes,” Jackson remarked, reflecting on his college years, where he was rarely troubled by health issues.
A Start That Stunned
Jackson's initial performances set the stage for what looked like an unblemished rise. His dual-threat capabilities led him to two NFL MVP titles within his first six seasons, a testament to his phenomenal impact on the field. Despite missing practices, Jackson consistently returned to lead his team with brilliance.
Jackson's absence due to illness reached a notable peak during the first week of this year’s training camp when he missed four practices. This raised eyebrows and prompted questions about the recurring nature of his health issues. Ravens' head coach, John Harbaugh, emphasized the thorough testing Jackson undergoes every time he falls ill. “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 organization's vigilance in managing their star player's health.
Jackson is no stranger to setbacks. In 2019 and 2020, he missed one practice each season, followed by three missed practices in 2021. The trend continued with one missed practice each in the 2022 and 2023 seasons. Each time he was sidelined, Jackson's determination to return stronger became evident. “You really never know when the bug hits you, but I got hit with a bug. I'm good now,” he assured, demonstrating his resolve to overcome these interruptions.
The Champion's Mindset
For Jackson, merely being recognized for his individual accolades is not enough. His eyes are set on the ultimate prize: a Super Bowl victory. “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, highlighting his commitment to team success over personal glory.
As Jackson continues to navigate the challenges posed by his health, his focus remains steadfast. Ravens' fans and the wider football community have come to admire not only his athletic prowess but also his unyielding spirit. Each season presents a new opportunity for Jackson to cement his legacy, not just as an MVP but as a champion, despite the intermittent setbacks that have accompanied his NFL journey.
The dynamic quarterback's story is far from complete. With each comeback from illness, Jackson reinforces his readiness to fight for every success. While the past seven seasons have shown a pattern of interruptions, they have also revealed the heart of a player who consistently rises to meet the occasion, dedicated to turning ambition into achievement on the grandest stage of all.