The Baltimore Ravens are going to be relying on quarterback Lamar Jackson for the foreseeable future. By trading back up into the first round of the 2018 NFL draft for Jackson and handing him the keys to the offense in the middle of the season, Baltimore has tied its fortunes to the young passer.
While Jackson put together a pretty impressive season with the Ravens that ranks well when compared to other rookie seasons by legendary mobile quarterbacks, it wasn’t perfect. Jackson had plenty of moments where his rawness as a passer shone through. From inaccurate passes to a rushed and sloppy throwing motion, Jackson and Baltimore are looking for improvement next season.
It’s something Jackson seems to be committed to doing. This offseason, he has been working out in Florida with quarterback guru Joshua Harris, according to ESPN’s Jamison Hensley. On Sunday, Harris psoted a video on Twitter of Jackson working on his dropback.
Coach John Harbaugh noted at the State of the Ravens’ press conference that Jackson is working with some of Baltimore’s wide receivers in Florida. Jackson posted a video on his Instagram account, specifically mentioning second-year wide receiver Jordan Lasley.
Ravens fans have a contentious history with their franchise quarterbacks working out in the offseason with receivers. Joe Flacco drew heavy criticism for the lack of it throughout his career before finally getting together last year in a rare moment.
However, with Jackson’s issues as a passer last season, it seems to be even more important he get in extra time now. Though Baltimore is expected to have a run-heavy offense again next season, defenses will put pressure on Jackson to be more efficient and dangerous throwing the football by selling out against the run. So the early work being put in by him this offseason is a welcome, and much-needed, sight.
