Ever since the 31 other NFL teams overlooked him during the 2018 Draft, Lamar Jackson has been on a mission to show them what they’re missing. With two MVP awards, four Pro Bowl selections, three All-Pro honors, and an impressive 70-24 record as a starting quarterback, Jackson has made quite a statement. His journey has been remarkable, and it’s clear that his drive to succeed is fueled by that draft-day snub.
But even with all those accolades, Ravens head coach John Harbaugh believes there’s still room for growth. In a candid moment on The Lounge podcast, he emphasized that progress isn’t always about flashy stats. “It’s not just about numbers,” he said. “It’s the little, intangible things… The greatest players elevate the game of those around them — and that’s what Lamar does. I know he can take that to an even higher level.”
Interestingly, even someone as electrifying on the field as Jackson is known to be more reserved in the locker room. He once mentioned in an interview that he could do a better job utilizing his voice among teammates. It’s a relatable struggle; many of us grapple with balancing confidence and humility, and it seems Jackson is no different.
However, Harbaugh reassured fans that Jackson is indeed progressing as a leader. He noted that his teammates genuinely care for him — a reflection of his authenticity and humility. “They love Lamar,” Harbaugh said, “because he’s genuine. He’s humble, he’s confident, and he’s only 28 years old. He’s been in the league for seven seasons now, and he continues to amaze.” It’s inspiring to see how someone so young can already be such a strong influence on his team.
The confidence in Jackson’s growth is echoed off the field as well. Current odds from oddsmakers place the Ravens as favorites to win the Super Bowl this season. FanDuel Sportsbook has set the odds at +650, slightly ahead of the Buffalo Bills and the defending champion Philadelphia Eagles. It speaks volumes that Jackson’s team is viewed as a real contender.
Beyond the Super Bowl, the expectations for this season are high. The Ravens are favored to exceed their regular season win total of 11.5, with odds currently at -130. Jackson himself is favored to claim the MVP award again, sitting at +430 odds. Behind him, stars like Patrick Mahomes and Joe Burrow trail with odds of +600. Clearly, there’s a buzz about what kind of performance this Baltimore squad will deliver.
If Jackson can prove Harbaugh right by continuing to evolve and elevate his game, the Ravens could become the ultimate safe bet this year. The excitement is palpable for fans and players alike — a collective hope that this could be their year. As Jackson decidedly grows into his role, many are eager to watch what might unfold next.
Image Source: Lamar Jackson @ Instagram
