Dan Orlovsky vehemently defends Lamar Jackson as the Baltimore Ravens and Cooper Kupp trade talks get underway.

The NFL offseason is always filled with speculation, drama, and blockbuster trade rumors. As teams look to bolster their rosters for the upcoming season, certain trades seem to have the potential to shake up the landscape of the league. One of the most intriguing storylines this offseason is centered around the Baltimore Ravens and Cooper Kupp, a trade that could significantly impact both teams. However, amid these rumors, one of the league’s most vocal analysts, Dan Orlovsky, has come to the defense of Lamar Jackson, the Ravens’ star quarterback, emphasizing his importance to the franchise.

As trade talks involving Kupp continue, it’s clear that the Ravens are looking to add weapons for Lamar Jackson, but the conversation has not only revolved around Kupp but also how Lamar Jackson’s future with the team might be evolving. This article will dive into Orlovsky’s defense of Jackson, what it means for his future with the Ravens, the potential trade for Kupp, and how all of these developments could impact the Ravens’ chances in the 2025 NFL season.

Dan Orlovsky’s Defense of Lamar Jackson

Dan Orlovsky, a former NFL quarterback turned analyst, has long been an outspoken defender of Lamar Jackson. Orlovsky’s defense of Jackson is rooted in both his admiration for Jackson’s unique skill set and his belief that the media and critics often misinterpret the Ravens’ success and the QB’s value. As Jackson’s future with the Ravens has become more uncertain, Orlovsky has repeatedly stepped up to clarify the narrative surrounding the 2019 MVP and his role in the team’s success.

The main point of contention for critics of Lamar Jackson has been his ability to win a Super Bowl and whether he is capable of leading a team through the playoffs in a high-pressure situation. Critics argue that Jackson’s style of play, which heavily leans on his running ability, makes him a liability in postseason games when teams are able to better prepare for his unique style. However, Orlovsky has vehemently rejected these claims, pointing out that Jackson has the ability to elevate his play and that the Ravens’ struggles in the playoffs are not solely on him.

Orlovsky’s defense of Jackson isn’t limited to just his running abilities, either. The analyst highlights how Jackson’s improvement as a passer over the years is often ignored. While his athleticism and ability to make explosive plays with his legs get the most attention, Jackson has steadily developed into a more capable passer, especially in the pocket. He’s shown that when given the right tools and support, he can win games with his arm, not just his legs.

Orlovsky’s message to the critics: Lamar Jackson is a superstar quarterback capable of leading a team to greatness, but he needs the right pieces around him. That’s where the trade rumors surrounding Cooper Kupp come into play.

Cooper Kupp and the Baltimore Ravens’ Trade Discussions

While Lamar Jackson’s future remains a significant part of the Ravens’ offseason storyline, the organization has also been heavily involved in trade discussions surrounding Cooper Kupp, the Los Angeles Rams’ star wide receiver. Kupp has long been one of the best wide receivers in the NFL, and with the Rams facing potential salary cap constraints and a potential rebuild, many believe that the Rams could be looking to part ways with their superstar.

The Baltimore Ravens, with their continued search for weapons to complement Lamar Jackson, have emerged as one of the top suitors for Kupp’s services. Baltimore’s receiving corps has been inconsistent, with players like Rashod Bateman showing promise but not yet becoming a true No. 1 target. Adding Kupp, who won the Triple Crown as the league’s leading receiver in 2021, would be a game-changer for the Ravens’ offense. Kupp’s ability to separate and make big plays would take a significant amount of pressure off Jackson, opening up the field for him to utilize his skills more effectively.

For the Ravens, this potential move makes a lot of sense. Kupp would be the true No. 1 receiver that the team has lacked since the departure of Steve Smith Sr. years ago. Pairing Kupp with Lamar Jackson could create a lethal combination that would elevate the Ravens’ offense and give them a legitimate shot at competing for a Super Bowl.

However, while the Ravens are pushing forward with trade talks for Kupp, Orlovsky’s defense of Lamar Jackson still holds strong. Even if Kupp is added to the roster, Orlovsky remains adamant that the Ravens need to build around Jackson’s talents and continue to invest in pieces that complement his unique skill set.

Why Lamar Jackson Needs More Support

The ongoing dialogue surrounding Lamar Jackson and the Ravens’ roster highlights the team’s need to provide more weapons around their franchise quarterback. Jackson’s career has been marked by flashes of brilliance, but he has often faced limitations in terms of offensive weaponry. Kupp would be a welcome addition to this offensive equation, but it’s not just about adding one star; it’s about continuing to build around Jackson in ways that maximize his talents.

Jackson’s skill set, particularly his dual-threat ability, requires a specific system and supporting cast to truly thrive. The Ravens’ offensive philosophy has traditionally leaned on a heavy running game, utilizing Jackson’s legs and a strong offensive line to wear down opponents. However, to truly unlock Jackson’s potential, Baltimore needs a true, dynamic receiving threat who can stretch the field vertically and consistently win 50-50 balls in crucial moments.

Kupp’s ability to run precise routes, get open in tight spaces, and provide a reliable option on third downs would be a perfect match for Lamar Jackson. Adding him to the Ravens’ offense could allow Jackson to be more efficient as a passer, take less damage as a runner, and ultimately increase the team’s chances of deep playoff runs.

However, it’s important to remember that Lamar Jackson’s future with the Ravens remains in limbo. The former MVP is currently dealing with contract negotiations that could see him either sign a long-term extension with the Ravens or potentially seek a fresh start elsewhere. The uncertainty surrounding Jackson’s contract situation has led to speculation about his future in Baltimore, and while some teams may be interested in acquiring him, the Ravens have made it clear that they view him as the cornerstone of their franchise.

What Does the Future Hold for Lamar Jackson and the Ravens?

As the offseason progresses, the fate of both Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens hangs in the balance. The trade discussions for Kupp are just one of many factors that will influence Jackson’s future with the team. If the Ravens can bring in Kupp and other key pieces, such as an improved offensive line and perhaps another weapon at wide receiver, the team may feel more confident in locking Jackson down with a long-term deal.

On the flip side, if trade talks for Kupp or other stars fall through, the Ravens could be forced to reevaluate their approach with Jackson. The Ravens will need to decide whether they are committed to building around Lamar Jackson or if the time has come for a new direction. It’s possible that they could make additional moves to improve the offense or defense and ensure that they continue to compete for a Super Bowl with Jackson at the helm.

How the Ravens Can Maximize Lamar Jackson’s Potential

Beyond acquiring a superstar like Kupp, there are several ways the Ravens can continue to maximize Lamar Jackson’s potential. First and foremost, they need to ensure that Jackson has a reliable offensive line in front of him. While the Ravens have made strides in recent years to improve their O-line, continued investment in this area will be crucial to keeping Jackson healthy and giving him time to make plays.

Additionally, the Ravens will need to remain committed to diversifying their offensive game plan. While Jackson’s legs are a weapon, it is essential that the Ravens continue to develop his passing game and provide him with a more complete offensive system. This will require offensive coordinator Todd Monken to create a more balanced attack that keeps defenses guessing.

Lastly, the Ravens will need to continue developing their wide receiver corps. Adding a player like Kupp is an excellent start, but they also need to nurture their existing players, such as Rashod Bateman, to ensure they have multiple threats on offense. When defenses are forced to respect the Ravens’ entire receiving unit, it will open up more opportunities for Jackson to make plays.