Lamar Jackson's Health Journey in the NFL
Since entering the NFL, Lamar Jackson has made headlines with his dynamic playing style, becoming one of the league’s most electrifying quarterbacks. Drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2018, Jackson has not only redefined what it means to be a dual-threat quarterback but has done so while contending with recurring health issues. Over seven seasons, Jackson’s frequent illnesses have often sidelined him, raising questions and concerns among fans and analysts alike.
Jackson’s struggle with illnesses began almost immediately after being drafted. Remarkably, just three days before his first NFL start, Jackson was hospitalized with severe stomach pains. Despite this setback, Jackson led the Ravens to a dramatic 24-21 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, showcasing his resilience and debuting with a historic performance, becoming the first quarterback in the Super Bowl era to rush for 100 yards in his first career start.
However, the health woes did not stop there. Since his rookie season, Jackson has missed at least one practice each year due to various non-COVID-related illnesses, totaling 12 missed practices over his career. This year was no different as Jackson sat out four practices during the first week of training camp, yet he remains optimistic about his health. "Man, I'll be thinking that sometimes because, at Louisville, I never got sick," Jackson said. "I never was sick, but it comes and goes."
Jackson's health has been a topic of meticulous scrutiny within the Ravens' organization. Head coach John Harbaugh emphasized the thorough approach taken when dealing with Jackson’s illnesses: "Lamar gets tested ... all of our guys get tested thoroughly, especially when you're sick. So, they look at every possibility." This rigorous attention underscores the team's commitment to ensuring their star player's well-being.
Despite these ongoing health issues, Jackson’s performance on the field has been nothing short of extraordinary. He has been named NFL MVP twice, a testament to his incredible talent and impact on the game. His achievements go beyond individual accolades, as Jackson personally aspires to lead the Ravens to the pinnacle of NFL success. "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 shared.
Throughout his career, Jackson has shown a remarkable ability to bounce back from illnesses. In 2021, he missed three practices, and in previous years, he missed one practice each during the 2019, 2020, 2022, and 2023 seasons. Despite these disruptions, he consistently returns to the field with a fierce determination to perform at the highest level. As he himself put it, "You really never know when the bug hits you, but I got hit with a bug. I'm good now."
Jackson’s commitment to the game and his team is unwavering. His journey, marked by both brilliant performances and frustrating setbacks, underscores the complexities athletes often face beyond the public eye. The Ravens, their fans, and the broader NFL community continue to watch Jackson’s career with keen interest, anticipating his further contributions and hoping for good health, which, if sustained, promises more record-breaking moments and perhaps the championship success Jackson so deeply desires.
As his story unfolds, Lamar Jackson remains a figure of resilience and aspiration, embodying the spirit of a true competitor and continuing to inspire all who follow his remarkable journey in professional football.