As dynamic and impressive as Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson looked in his rookie season, there are naturally some things he needs to improve upon. Jackson’s detractors immediately go after his ability as a passer as the biggest area of concern. But it’s the fumbles most fans should be concerned about.
Ravens offensive coordinator Greg Roman said Jackson’s fumble issues are an emphasis and will be resolved.
“I think he knows, we know and we all collectively know that we can’t do that,” Roman said at his introductory press conference today. “That’s No. 1 and that’s going to be a big emphasis. I feel very strongly that’s going to get taken care of, without question.
Jackson was a force on the ground last season, rushing for 695 yards and five touchdowns on 147 attempts. But for all the good Jackson did with his legs, he often put the football on the ground. Jackson ended the regular season and postseason with 15 fumbles, by far leading the NFL — in just half a season as starter.
Jackson often carried the football in one hand while scrambling. It was something he got away with playing at Louisville, and its show the disparity in talent level and speed from college to the NFL. Pro defenders are faster and more able to make quick cuts while focusing attention on stripping the football. As a result, Jackson will have to grow the sense to know when defenders are closing and learn how to carry the football more securely.
But Roman wasn’t terribly concerned with Jackson improving on that fault. He pointed to Jackson’s ability to learn and develop as a reason to be excited.
“Lamar has a unique skill set,” Roman said. “Just like any young guy, he’s going to develop. So, as far as him throwing the football, we feel great about it. We saw a lot of improvement last year throughout the season. And really, he’s only going to get better from here.”
There’s no question Jackson needs to improve as a passer while cleaning up his ball security, and there’s no reason to think he can’t do that. Roman previously talked about how impressed he was with Jackson’s intrinsic abilities while noting the rest could be developed and honed. The hope is Jackson’s fumbling issue is the first thing on Roman’s checklist when the players return to the Under Armour Performance Center in summer.
