Did Baltimore Ravens Do Enough to Back Lamar Jackson This Summer?

Lamar Jackson shattered multiple records en route to the 2019 NFL MVP title two years ago. The Florida-born youngster became the second quarterback after Tom Brady to win the prestigious award by a unanimous vote. Jackson threw for 3,127 yards with 36 passing TDs against 6 interceptions.

He further rushed for 1,200+ yards with 7 rushing touchdowns to his name. Jackson continued where he left off in 2020 with some eye-catching displays at the start of the season. Despite inconsistent displays midway through the season, the Ravens managed to qualify for the NFL Playoffs.

ALSO READ – Tampa Bay Buccaneers Rookie Joe Tryon Risks the Wrath of Tom Brady

Unfortunately, Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills cut short their run in the Divisional Round. But HC John Harbaugh and the Ravens’ management have done a commendable job in strengthening their offense ahead of the 2021 season.

Will it be enough to help Lamar propel Baltimore back into a Super Bowl finale?

Can Lamar Jackson lead the Ravens to the playoffs in 2021?

Former Heisman Trophy winner Lamar Jackson did not seem to be at his destructive best in 2020. He finished the season with 2,757 yards, with 26 passing TDs against 9 interceptions. He became the first quarterback to rush for 1,000+ yards for two consecutive years.

Critics indicated that the Baltimore Ravens superstar needs more offensive reinforcement if he wants to lead the team to a Super Bowl. WR Dez Bryant was brought in midway through the season last year, but that experiment didn’t pan out as expected.

However, they’ve done a commendable job this offseason.

ALSO READ – Three Possible Landing Spots for Wantaway Packers QB Aaron Rodgers

The Ravens signed Super Bowl-winning WR Sammy Watkins on a short-term deal earlier this summer. In addition to that, coach Harbaugh also secured the signing of G Kevin Zeitler on a three-year, $22.5 million deal. This will offer Lamar additional protection in the pocket which in turn will enable him to work on his passing game.

They also drafted Minnesota rookie WR Rashod Bateman in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft last month.

Bateman was one of the best wide receivers in college football two years ago. He averaged 20.3 yards per reception in 2019 but sat out the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 crisis. The Ravens also selected Oklahoma State wideout Tylan Wallace in the 4th round (131st overall).