Former Baltimore Ravens QB outrageously compares Lamar Jackson, Jalen Hurts, Rashod Bateman criticizes Chiefs

Former Baltimore Ravens QB Outrageously Compares Lamar Jackson, Jalen Hurts, Rashod Bateman Criticizes Chiefs

In the high-pressure world of professional football, opinions can sometimes lead to dramatic headlines, especially when former players, coaches, or analysts decide to weigh in on the current state of the game. One such instance unfolded recently when a former Baltimore Ravens quarterback made waves by offering an unorthodox comparison between two of the NFL’s most dynamic quarterbacks—Lamar Jackson of the Ravens and Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles—while also criticizing the Kansas City Chiefs and commenting on the future of Ravens’ wide receiver Rashod Bateman.

This bold and highly debated statement not only sparked conversation in Baltimore and Philadelphia but also sent ripples throughout the league. The former Ravens quarterback’s words served as a reminder of just how polarizing the game of football can be, especially when it comes to the subject of quarterback talent, the prospects of up-and-coming wide receivers, and the perennial powerhouse teams like the Chiefs. Let’s break down the story, examining the comparisons, criticisms, and the reasoning behind these provocative comments, as well as their impact on the NFL landscape.

The Bold Comparison: Lamar Jackson vs. Jalen Hurts

Lamar Jackson and Jalen Hurts are two of the NFL’s most electrifying quarterbacks. Both have experienced a meteoric rise in the league, leading their teams to playoff contention and captivating fans with their dual-threat abilities. Jackson, the 2019 NFL MVP, is known for his incredible speed and elusiveness, while Hurts, in just his third year as a starter, led the Eagles to a Super Bowl appearance in 2023 and has proven to be one of the most effective quarterbacks in the league.

However, the former Ravens quarterback’s comments took things a step further by comparing the two in an “outrageous” manner. He claimed that, while Jackson has been a revelation for the Ravens and transformed their offensive scheme, Hurts has the “complete package” and is currently ahead of Jackson in terms of overall quarterback play. The statement, which some viewed as a friendly rivalry in the quarterback conversation, quickly ignited debates across the NFL.

Breaking Down the Comparison: Lamar Jackson

Lamar Jackson has been one of the most electrifying quarterbacks in the NFL since he took over the starting role for the Baltimore Ravens. A true game-changer, Jackson’s blend of speed, agility, and arm talent has made him one of the most difficult quarterbacks to defend. Jackson has consistently broken records, including becoming the youngest quarterback to win the NFL MVP award in 2019, and his ability to make plays with his legs is still unparalleled.

Under Jackson’s leadership, the Ravens have consistently been one of the most potent rushing teams in the NFL, and his ability to extend plays and keep opposing defenses on edge makes him an invaluable asset to the team. The Ravens’ offensive system revolves around Jackson’s unique skill set, which has created a dynamic and unpredictable style of play.

Yet, despite his accomplishments, the criticisms of Jackson often stem from his perceived inability to consistently win in the postseason and his struggles with passing accuracy at times. While he has shown remarkable improvement as a passer, particularly in the 2022 season, the Ravens have yet to reach the Super Bowl with Jackson under center. This has led to some questioning whether Jackson’s style of play—while exciting—will ultimately be sustainable in high-stakes, high-pressure games like the playoffs.

Breaking Down the Comparison: Jalen Hurts

In contrast, Jalen Hurts has emerged as one of the most complete quarterbacks in the NFL. After a rocky start to his career, Hurts has developed into a true franchise quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles. The 2023 season proved to be a career-defining year for Hurts, as he led the Eagles to Super Bowl LVII and solidified his place among the elite quarterbacks in the league.

Hurts’ development as a passer has been nothing short of impressive, as he’s shown tremendous growth in his ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and deliver the ball accurately. What makes Hurts particularly dangerous is his ability to combine elite passing with his own dual-threat running ability. Hurts rushed for 760 yards and 13 touchdowns in the 2022 season, further proving his dual-threat capabilities.

What sets Hurts apart from Jackson in the eyes of some analysts—including the former Ravens quarterback—is his development as a passer. Hurts has shown a level of consistency that Jackson is still working toward, especially in terms of making precision throws in high-pressure situations. Hurts’ Super Bowl appearance in just his third season demonstrated his ability to excel on the biggest stage, and his strong supporting cast, including an elite offensive line and weapons like A.J. Brown, Dallas Goedert, and DeVonta Smith, have allowed him to flourish as a passer.

However, Hurts’ success hasn’t come without its own set of criticisms. Many argue that his performance is elevated by the offensive system he plays in, which is designed to take advantage of his strengths, including the Eagles’ strong run game and elite offensive line. Still, his performance in the postseason, including a strong showing in the Super Bowl, has earned him the title of one of the top quarterbacks in the NFL, even if his long-term success remains to be seen.

The Controversial Statement: “Hurts Has the Complete Package”

The former Ravens quarterback’s statement that Jalen Hurts currently possesses “the complete package” while Lamar Jackson is still a step behind raised eyebrows among both Ravens and Eagles fans. The comparison drew sharp criticism from Jackson’s supporters, who feel that Jackson’s unique skill set, which includes his dynamic rushing ability and electric playmaking, makes him a far more dangerous quarterback overall. Jackson’s resume speaks for itself, from his MVP season to his ability to singlehandedly elevate the Ravens’ offense year after year.

On the other hand, Hurts’ supporters have pointed to his rapid development as a passer, his leadership, and his success in the postseason as proof that Hurts is the more complete quarterback at this point in their respective careers. Hurts has quickly ascended to the top of the NFL quarterback rankings, and some view him as the future of the position.

The former Ravens quarterback’s comments, though controversial, have sparked a valuable conversation about the evolution of the quarterback position. Is the traditional pocket-passer, like Hurts, the new ideal? Or is the dynamic dual-threat quarterback, like Jackson, the future of the NFL? This debate is sure to continue for years to come.

Rashod Bateman’s Criticism of the Chiefs

While the comparison between Jackson and Hurts dominated the conversation, the former Ravens quarterback also had words for the Kansas City Chiefs and their approach to building a championship-caliber team. Specifically, Rashod Bateman, the Ravens’ promising young wide receiver, has been vocal about what he believes to be the Chiefs’ lack of depth at wide receiver compared to other top-tier teams in the league.

Bateman, who has struggled with injuries during his time in Baltimore but still possesses immense potential, criticized the Chiefs’ decision to rely heavily on star wide receiver Tyreek Hill’s departure and the subsequent moves to fill the void. Bateman suggested that the Chiefs’ failure to consistently address the wide receiver position could hinder their chances of sustained success, despite having a generational quarterback in Patrick Mahomes.

Bateman’s critique is understandable, as the Chiefs’ receiving corps, while featuring talented players like Travis Kelce and Marquez Valdes-Scantling, has been viewed by some as lacking elite depth compared to teams like the Eagles or the Ravens. Mahomes has proven capable of making virtually anyone a potential target in his high-powered offense, but Bateman’s comments reflect a growing sentiment that the Chiefs could be vulnerable in the long term if they don’t adequately address their receiver depth.

What Does This Mean for the Ravens?

The comparisons and criticisms made by the former Ravens quarterback underscore the fact that Baltimore has a lot at stake in the upcoming seasons. With Lamar Jackson locked in as their franchise quarterback, the Ravens will need to build a supporting cast that can complement his talents. Rashod Bateman, if he can stay healthy, has the potential to become Jackson’s go-to target. However, the Ravens will need to continue adding playmakers to both the receiver position and the offensive line to remain competitive.

Additionally, the Jackson vs. Hurts debate highlights the need for Jackson to continue improving as a passer and prove that he can lead the Ravens to a Super Bowl. While Jackson’s rushing ability has often been enough to elevate the Ravens, questions about his passing accuracy remain a hurdle that the team must overcome to secure a championship.