In the seven seasons since Lamar Jackson graced the NFL with his dynamic presence, one aspect of his journey has drawn significant attention: his recurring illnesses. Since being drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2018, Jackson has consistently missed practices due to non-COVID-related ailments.
Remarkably, Lamar Jackson has missed at least one practice per season for various reasons, tallying up to 12 missed practices over his career. These absences have ranged from a single missed practice in 2019, 2020, 2022, and 2023 to more substantial missed time, such as the four practices he sat out during the first week of this year's training camp.
But perhaps one of the most concerning moments in Jackson's early career was just days before his inaugural NFL start. "Jackson was hospitalized for severe stomach pains just three days before his first NFL start in 2018." Despite this setback, Jackson's tenacity and skill were on full display as he led the Ravens to a 24-21 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. In that game, Jackson also made history by becoming the first quarterback in the Super Bowl era to rush for 100 yards in his first career start.
Jackson's performance on the field has always been nothing short of spectacular, underscored by his two NFL MVP awards within his first six seasons. Yet, Jackson himself remains candid about the challenge of frequent illnesses. "Man, I'll be thinking that sometimes because, at Louisville, I never got sick. I never was sick, but it comes and goes," he reflects on his unexpected health issues since joining the NFL.
The Ravens organization has been diligent in monitoring Jackson's health, as head coach John Harbaugh emphasizes, "Lamar gets tested ... all of our guys get tested thoroughly, especially when you're sick. So, they look at every possibility." The frequency of these health assessments is indicative of the team's proactive approach to ensuring their star player's well-being.
Jackson's resilience is a testament to his dedication and mental fortitude, with each setback turning into a comeback. In 2021, he missed three practices, yet his performance the following week demonstrated his unyielding spirit. "You really never know when the bug hits you, but I got hit with a bug. I'm good now," Jackson mentioned, highlighting his swift recoveries and return to form.
One thing is clear: Jackson's ultimate goal transcends individual accolades. "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," declares Jackson with conviction. His eyes are firmly set on leading the Ravens to championship glory, an objective that propels him despite the ongoing health challenges.
As the Ravens navigate their season, the hope is that Jackson's health issues will diminish, allowing him to be consistently available and at his peak. The franchise and fans alike recognize that a fully fit Lamar Jackson is not just a quarterback; he is a game-changer. His history-making debut laid the foundation, and countless performances since have built upon it, solidifying his place as one of the league's most electrifying players.
The past seven seasons have depicted a narrative of a quarterback who, despite frequent bouts with illness, has etched his name into the annals of NFL greatness. As Jackson continues to strive for excellence and that coveted championship, the league watches with bated breath, knowing that any game could witness another chapter in the remarkable story of Lamar Jackson.