In the seven seasons since Lamar Jackson joined the NFL, his career has been marked by both exceptional achievements and notable absences. Jackson, who has been hailed as one of the most dynamic quarterbacks of his generation, has frequently found himself sidelined due to illnesses. Despite his occasional absences, Jackson has consistently proven his mettle on the field.
Since being drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2018, Jackson has missed at least one practice each season due to a non-COVID-related illness. His missed practices have accumulated to a total of twelve, with four of those coming during the first week of this year's training camp alone. "You really never know when the bug hits you, but I got hit with a bug. I'm good now," Jackson reflected, speaking candidly about his unpredictable bouts with illness.
His health issues date back to his rookie season when just three days before his first NFL start, Jackson was hospitalized with severe stomach pains. Yet, in true Lamar Jackson fashion, he overcame this obstacle and led the Ravens to a 24-21 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. Notably, Jackson rushed for 100 yards in that game, making NFL history as the first quarterback in the Super Bowl era to do so in a debut start.
Although Jackson has missed practice time each year, his impact on the field has not waned. His 2019 and 2020 seasons each saw him miss a practice, and the same pattern repeated in 2022 and 2023. However, it is perhaps his 2021 season where the inconsistencies in his attendance were most felt, missing three practices due to illness.
Despite these challenges, Jackson's performance has been nothing short of extraordinary. In his first six seasons, he earned the NFL MVP award twice, a testament to his skill and determination. "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," he asserted, laying bare his ultimate goal.
Jackson's resilience and fortitude in the face of health obstacles are commendable. His coach, John Harbaugh, mentioned the thorough medical examinations Jackson undergoes. "Lamar gets tested ... all of our guys get tested thoroughly, especially when you're sick. So, they look at every possibility." This rigorous oversight is crucial to ensuring that Jackson remains fit to lead his team.
Interestingly, Jackson himself noted a difference in his health patterns since joining the NFL. "Man, I'll be thinking that sometimes because, at Louisville, I never got sick. I never was sick, but it comes and goes," Jackson mused. His relatively illness-free college career at Louisville stands in stark contrast to his time with the Ravens, underscoring the unpredictable nature of his health issues.
While Lamar Jackson's health has led to some disruptions, it is clear that these incidents have not overshadowed his remarkable football journey. His determination to succeed and his natural athletic talent have made him a standout player in the league. With his eye firmly on the ultimate prize of becoming a champion, Jackson continues to be a compelling figure both on and off the field, navigating the challenges thrown his way with unwavering focus and resilience.
As the Ravens look forward to the rest of the season, fans and analysts alike will keep a keen eye on Jackson. His health will undoubtedly remain a topic of discussion, but one thing is certain: Lamar Jackson's talent and drive make him a force to be reckoned with, illnesses notwithstanding. His journey in the NFL is a testament to overcoming adversity, proving once again that in the world of sports, sheer will and skill can triumph over unforeseen hurdles.