Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens is the NFL’s second-best quarterback.

Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens: The NFL’s Second-Best Quarterback

In the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL, quarterback play remains the focal point of any successful franchise. It’s no secret that the league is teeming with incredible talent at the quarterback position, with each player bringing a unique skill set to the field. Among these talented quarterbacks, Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens stands as one of the most dynamic and transformative players to ever step onto an NFL field. While there’s ongoing debate about who occupies the top spot in the quarterback rankings, Lamar Jackson unquestionably deserves recognition as the second-best quarterback in the NFL.

Jackson, known for his electrifying ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs, has taken the NFL by storm since his arrival in 2018. He is a former MVP, a dual-threat quarterback who has fundamentally changed the way the game is played. But beyond his accolades and records, Jackson’s impact on the Ravens, his ability to rise in key moments, and his continued development as a passer all contribute to his standing as one of the league’s elite quarterbacks. In this piece, we will explore why Lamar Jackson is deserving of his spot as the second-best quarterback in the NFL, diving deep into his strengths, his impact on the Ravens, and his place in the league’s hierarchy of quarterbacks.

A Dual-Threat Quarterback Like No Other

One of the most defining aspects of Lamar Jackson’s game is his ability to both run and pass with remarkable skill. As a dual-threat quarterback, Jackson redefines what it means to play the position. His speed and agility allow him to escape pressure and create explosive plays on the ground, often making defenders look foolish in the open field. However, Jackson’s ability as a passer is just as crucial to his game. His evolution as a quarterback has been nothing short of extraordinary, and it has allowed him to thrive in an NFL landscape that increasingly favors quarterbacks who can do it all.

Jackson’s running ability has been a game-changer for the Ravens, but it’s his overall playmaking ability that sets him apart from most other quarterbacks in the league. His ability to break free from the pocket and pick up yards with his legs makes him a nightmare for defenses. He is often compared to running backs in terms of his open-field running, with some plays showcasing his ability to make defenders miss and gain yardage seemingly effortlessly.

In addition to his rushing prowess, Jackson has developed into a more than capable passer. Critics once questioned whether he could make the necessary throws in the NFL, particularly in tight windows and when under pressure. But Jackson has answered those questions, showing impressive improvement with each passing year. He has consistently put up big numbers as a passer and has improved his decision-making and accuracy over time. Jackson is now a legitimate passing threat, and defenses can no longer afford to ignore his ability to throw the football effectively.

Lamar Jackson’s Impact on the Ravens

When discussing Lamar Jackson’s value, it’s impossible to ignore his transformative effect on the Baltimore Ravens franchise. Jackson’s arrival in 2018 revitalized a franchise that had previously relied on more traditional quarterback play. Under Jackson, the Ravens quickly adapted to an offense that leveraged his unique skill set, and the results were immediate. In just his second season as the starting quarterback, Jackson led the Ravens to a 14-2 record and was named the NFL’s MVP in 2019, marking one of the most dominant seasons by a quarterback in recent history.

Jackson’s leadership and on-field ability have not only reshaped the Ravens’ offense but have also altered the course of the franchise. Prior to his arrival, Baltimore’s offense had been known for a more traditional, pro-style attack, relying on the arm of Joe Flacco. However, with Jackson at the helm, the Ravens quickly embraced a run-heavy, option-based offense that maximized his athleticism. This shift in philosophy led to immediate success, as Jackson brought a new, high-energy style to the field. Under his leadership, the Ravens led the NFL in rushing yards per game in both 2019 and 2020, setting a precedent for how to blend a modern offense with a dynamic quarterback.

Jackson’s ability to keep defenses on their toes with his legs and arm has opened up opportunities for everyone around him. Players such as tight end Mark Andrews, wide receivers Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, and other key offensive pieces have benefitted from Jackson’s ability to create big plays. Moreover, Jackson’s on-the-field confidence and ability to rally his teammates have elevated the entire Ravens organization. While the Ravens have had their fair share of ups and downs, Jackson’s consistency and clutch playmaking have made them perennial contenders in the AFC.

Lamar Jackson’s Athleticism and Football IQ

While Jackson’s speed and athleticism are often the first qualities mentioned when discussing his game, his football IQ has quietly emerged as a defining characteristic of his success. As a quarterback who thrives in high-pressure situations, Jackson has shown time and again that he can process information quickly and make the right decisions in the heat of battle. His ability to read defenses, understand coverage schemes, and make the correct throws has evolved rapidly, something that’s often overlooked in discussions about his skill set.

Jackson’s decision-making and awareness in the pocket have become increasingly refined as he gains more experience in the NFL. He is no longer the raw, unpolished quarterback that many believed him to be early in his career. In fact, Jackson has developed into a cerebral player who can manipulate defenses with his eyes and use subtle movements in the pocket to buy himself time to make throws down the field. His ability to make quick decisions and remain calm under pressure is a testament to his growth as a quarterback.

In addition to his on-field intelligence, Jackson has also shown remarkable resilience and adaptability. Throughout his career, he has had to deal with questions about his ability to play from the pocket, and he’s responded by continuously improving as a passer. His development has allowed him to evolve into a true two-way threat who can dominate both with his legs and his arm. Jackson’s adaptability is a key reason why he has reached such high levels of success in the NFL.

Lamar Jackson’s Performance in Big Games

Another reason why Lamar Jackson ranks as the second-best quarterback in the NFL is his ability to perform in big games. While some quarterbacks struggle under pressure or falter in playoff situations, Jackson has continually shown that he is capable of handling the spotlight. While his playoff record may still have some question marks, he has had numerous memorable performances that underscore his ability to shine in high-stakes situations.

Jackson’s most notable playoff performance came in 2020, when he led the Ravens to a thrilling victory over the Tennessee Titans. After being down by multiple scores, Jackson orchestrated a remarkable comeback, showcasing his leadership and poise in a must-win game. His ability to perform under pressure was once again on display during this game, as he carried the Ravens to a 20-13 win. His performance in that playoff game remains one of the defining moments of his career, as it demonstrated his ability to rise to the occasion when the stakes were highest.

While the Ravens have faced some setbacks in the playoffs during Jackson’s tenure, he has consistently put his team in a position to succeed. His ability to make plays when needed most is a quality that many of the NFL’s top quarterbacks share, and it’s one of the reasons why Jackson has earned a spot among the league’s elite.

Comparing Lamar Jackson to Other Elite Quarterbacks

When ranking quarterbacks in the NFL, there is often a debate over who deserves the title of the best. While Jackson may not currently hold the top spot in most rankings, his skill set places him firmly in the conversation. At the moment, Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs is widely regarded as the best quarterback in the NFL, and it’s hard to argue against his accomplishments. However, Lamar Jackson is undeniably the second-best quarterback in the league, and here’s why.

Jackson’s ability to change the game with his legs makes him an unmatched threat in certain areas. While Mahomes is known for his incredible arm strength, Jackson brings a different dynamic to the table with his dual-threat capabilities. Jackson’s running ability forces defenses to account for him on every single play, creating opportunities for his teammates and putting constant pressure on opposing defensive coordinators. In terms of pure athleticism, Jackson is second to none.

Additionally, Jackson’s ability to improve and evolve as a passer puts him in the upper echelon of quarterbacks. While Mahomes may still hold an edge in terms of overall passing ability, Jackson is rapidly closing the gap. With continued development, Jackson could eventually challenge for the top spot.