Last Drive: Steve Bisciotti Describes Why There Was No Risk in Drafting Lamar Jackson.

In the world of the NFL, few stories have been as thrilling and transformative as the Baltimore Ravens’ decision to draft Lamar Jackson in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft. At the time, Jackson was considered a polarizing figure. The Louisville product had won the prestigious Heisman Trophy and was one of the most electrifying college football players of his era. However, questions about his mechanics, style of play, and ability to thrive in a traditional NFL system surrounded him. Despite this uncertainty, the Ravens—led by owner Steve Bisciotti and general manager Ozzie Newsome—decided to take the plunge and select Jackson with the 32nd overall pick, a decision that would forever alter the franchise’s future.

Fast forward to today, and Jackson has become one of the most dynamic and accomplished quarterbacks in the league. His electrifying playmaking ability, MVP award in 2019, and record-breaking performances have solidified his place as a cornerstone of the Ravens’ offense. His unique blend of speed, agility, and arm strength has reshaped the way the NFL views the quarterback position, and his success has been a testament to the vision and boldness of those who believed in him from the start.

One of the most notable moments in the history of the Lamar Jackson draft selection came during a conversation between Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti and the media. Bisciotti, reflecting on the decision to draft Jackson, explained why there was “no risk” involved, despite the widespread skepticism surrounding the pick. This perspective not only sheds light on the Ravens’ confidence in Jackson but also provides insight into Bisciotti’s approach to building a winning franchise.

In this article, we will explore Bisciotti’s reflections on Lamar Jackson’s draft selection, why he believed there was no risk in taking Jackson, and how this decision ultimately shaped the Ravens’ trajectory. We will also look at the broader implications of this moment for the Ravens, the NFL, and the future of quarterback play.

1. The 2018 Draft and Lamar Jackson’s Questionable Status

The 2018 NFL Draft was a highly anticipated event, and as the first round unfolded, it became clear that Lamar Jackson was an outlier. Despite his remarkable college career at Louisville, Jackson was not viewed by many analysts and scouts as a “prototypical” NFL quarterback. His unique dual-threat abilities were both a strength and a point of concern. Critics questioned whether Jackson’s unorthodox playing style, which featured an exceptional ability to make plays with his legs, could translate into success in the NFL, where passing from the pocket was considered the primary skill set for quarterbacks.

Moreover, Jackson’s mechanics were often criticized. His throwing motion was considered awkward by some, and his deep ball accuracy was considered a question mark. With such questions swirling around him, Jackson slipped down the draft board as teams passed on him, even though he was still considered one of the most talented quarterbacks in the class.

As the first round approached its conclusion, the Ravens, who were sitting at pick number 32, found themselves in a unique position. With veteran quarterback Joe Flacco still entrenched as the starter, the team had no immediate need to select a quarterback. However, the Ravens’ front office, led by general manager Ozzie Newsome and supported by Bisciotti, recognized Jackson’s potential and saw an opportunity to secure a future franchise quarterback.

2. Steve Bisciotti’s Confidence in Jackson: “No Risk” in the Pick

In the years following Jackson’s selection, Bisciotti took the opportunity to discuss the decision-making process behind drafting the young quarterback. The story he told was one of conviction, confidence, and a long-term vision. According to Bisciotti, despite all the questions and doubts surrounding Jackson, the Ravens did not see any risk in making the pick.

“I’m sitting there with Ozzie, and we’re talking about the quarterbacks available,” Bisciotti recalled. “When we came to Lamar, it wasn’t a question of whether or not he could play in the NFL. It was a question of how long it would take for him to become the type of quarterback that could lead us to a Super Bowl. But there was no risk.”

Bisciotti’s words are telling. At the time, many analysts and fans viewed the decision to select Jackson as a “risk” due to the perceived flaws in his game. However, Bisciotti and the Ravens’ brass saw something different. To them, Jackson was not a gamble but a unique opportunity to bring an entirely new dimension to their offense. They recognized that Jackson’s athleticism and football IQ could overcome any perceived flaws, and that, in the right system, Jackson’s potential was unlimited.

3. Trust in the Development Process

One of the key aspects of the Ravens’ decision-making process was their belief in their ability to develop Jackson into a successful NFL quarterback. The team’s approach to player development has long been one of its strengths, and this was no different with Jackson. Bisciotti, Newsome, and head coach John Harbaugh all believed that with the right coaching and support, Jackson could reach his full potential as an NFL quarterback.

“We’ve always been a team that believes in developing players,” Bisciotti explained. “Lamar’s not the most conventional quarterback, but that doesn’t mean he can’t succeed. We saw his raw talent, his instincts, and his ability to make plays in ways others couldn’t. We knew that if we put him in the right situation, he could grow into a leader.”

The Ravens’ belief in their development process was validated over time. Jackson was given the opportunity to learn behind Joe Flacco, who served as a stabilizing veteran presence. Under offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg, Jackson was able to develop his skills in a controlled environment, with the coaching staff working tirelessly to improve his mechanics and passing accuracy. As Jackson gained experience, the Ravens’ offense evolved to take advantage of his strengths as a dual-threat quarterback, with a focus on the read-option, play-action passing, and creative ways to utilize Jackson’s legs.

The Ravens’ ability to develop Jackson allowed him to grow into the player he is today—an MVP-caliber quarterback capable of taking over games with both his arm and his legs. The team’s faith in Jackson’s potential paid off, and his ascension to stardom proved that, in their eyes, there was no real “risk” in the pick. Instead, it was a calculated move that would bear fruit in the years to come.

4. The Immediate Impact: Lamar Jackson Takes Over as the Starter

Jackson’s rookie season was an up-and-down affair, as he played behind Flacco for much of the first part of the year. However, injuries to Flacco ultimately thrust Jackson into the starting role. In just his seventh career start, Jackson led the Ravens to a playoff berth and provided an early glimpse of his remarkable ability to change the game with his legs. His dynamic playmaking style immediately energized the team and the fanbase.

While Jackson’s passing game still required development, his ability to make explosive plays on the ground made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His performance in his first playoff appearance, though ultimately ending in a loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, was a sign of things to come. The Ravens were already planning for a future centered around Jackson, and they adjusted their offensive philosophy to capitalize on his unique skill set.

In 2019, Jackson took a massive leap forward, leading the Ravens to an NFL-best 14-2 record and winning the MVP award. His passing game improved significantly, and he set numerous records for quarterbacks, including the single-season rushing record for a quarterback. His ability to throw accurately, extend plays, and make quick decisions helped the Ravens’ offense reach new heights.

5. Lamar Jackson’s Evolution: From Doubts to Dominance

In the years since his draft, Lamar Jackson has grown into one of the most exciting and successful quarterbacks in the NFL. His ability to balance running and passing has completely changed the way teams view the quarterback position, and his success has proven that a quarterback with a unique skill set does not need to fit the traditional mold in order to be successful.

Jackson’s success has also made the Ravens’ bold decision to draft him look prescient. Bisciotti and Newsome’s belief in Jackson’s potential has been vindicated as Jackson has led the Ravens to multiple playoff appearances, solidified his place among the league’s elite quarterbacks, and set numerous records along the way. What once seemed like a risky pick now looks like a stroke of genius.

Bisciotti’s faith in Jackson has proven that the Ravens’ front office wasn’t simply taking a gamble—they were making a long-term investment in a player they believed could transform the franchise. His belief in Jackson’s ability to succeed in Baltimore’s system and his commitment to allowing Jackson to grow as a player have paid off in spades.

6. The Legacy of Lamar Jackson’s Draft Selection

Looking back, it’s easy to see how impactful the decision to draft Lamar Jackson has been for the Ravens. The team now has a franchise quarterback who is one of the most electrifying players in the league. Jackson’s leadership, work ethic, and continued development have made him the centerpiece of the Ravens’ offense, and his success is a direct reflection of the team’s faith in him.

For Bisciotti, Jackson’s selection is not just a story of a successful draft pick—it’s a testament to the Ravens’ philosophy of long-term planning, player development, and trust in their ability to evaluate talent. The decision to select Jackson wasn’t based on immediate needs or market pressure but on a vision for the future—a vision that has paid off in a big way.

In the end, the Ravens’ decision to draft Lamar Jackson will be remembered as one of the most impactful moments in the franchise’s history. What was once seen as a “risky” move is now viewed as a masterstroke—a move that not only redefined the team’s future but also helped change the NFL’s perception of what a quarterback can be. Steve Bisciotti’s belief that there was no risk in selecting Lamar Jackson has been vindicated, and as Jackson continues to lead the Ravens to success, it’s clear that the decision to draft him will be remembered as a defining moment in the team’s legacy.