As Lamar Jackson enters his seventh NFL season, he continues to captivate fans and analysts alike, not only with his electrifying play but also with his resilience in the face of recurring health issues. Jackson, who has been a cornerstone for the Baltimore Ravens since being drafted in 2018, has faced an ongoing battle with various illnesses that have periodically sidelined him from practices.
An Unpredictable Challenge
Since joining the Ravens, Jackson has missed at least one practice each season due to non-COVID-related illnesses. Notably, he has sat out 12 practices over the course of his career for reasons ranging from stomach pains to other unspecified ailments. This pattern continued into this year's training camp, where Jackson was absent from four practices during the first week.
Reflecting on his health challenges, Jackson noted, "Man, I'll be thinking that sometimes because, at Louisville, I never got sick. I never was sick, but it comes and goes." This sentiment echoes the puzzling nature of his recurring illnesses, a stark contrast to his collegiate years.
The First Signs
Jackson's initial bout with severe illness came just three days before his first NFL start in 2018, when he was hospitalized for severe stomach pains. Despite this setback, Jackson showcased his trademark tenacity and resilience. He recovered in time to lead the Ravens to a 24-21 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, becoming the first quarterback in the Super Bowl era to rush for 100 yards in his first career start.
A Consistent Pattern
The list of missed practices includes one in each of the 2019, 2020, 2022, and 2023 seasons. Additionally, Jackson was absent from three practices in 2021, raising concerns about his ongoing struggle with health issues. Despite these challenges, Ravens head coach John Harbaugh has expressed confidence in the team's approach to Jackson's health. "Lamar gets tested ... all of our guys get tested thoroughly, especially when you're sick. So, they look at every possibility," Harbaugh stated.
An MVP Player
Jackson's remarkable achievements on the field have often overshadowed his health challenges. In his first six seasons, he earned the NFL MVP title twice, a testament to his extraordinary talent and determination. Even when adversity strikes, Jackson has demonstrated an uncanny ability to bounce back and perform at the highest level.
After returning from another bout of illness, Jackson remarked, "You really never know when the bug hits you, but I got hit with a bug. I'm good now." His focus remains steadfastly on his ultimate goal of becoming a champion. "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.
While Jackson's recurrent health issues have been a point of concern, they have also highlighted his resilience and capacity to overcome obstacles. As he continues his journey in the NFL, his drive for championship glory remains undiminished, embodying the spirit and determination that define great athletes. The coming seasons will undoubtedly present new challenges, but with Jackson's resolve, the Ravens' hopes for success remain as strong as ever.