Baltimore Ravens: Predicting individual awards in 2019
By Luke Parrish
Most Improved: Lamar Jackson
Lamar Jackson went 6-1 as a starter during his rookie season. His late-season surge launched the Ravens atop the AFC North and into the playoffs. Jackson is a dynamic quarterback, as we all know, blending a strong arm with incredible speed as a runner. Still, there is room for improvement on Jackson’s behalf.
The team made clear strides to supply the offense with more talent to ease Jackson into becoming a better, more complete quarterback in 2019. The run game has new options to take the pressure off him on the ground. They also added Marquise Brown in the passing game.
Brown gives Jackson a legitimate big-play threat on the outside to open up the offense. While the receiving unit still has a ways to go, they are headed in the right direction. Jackson has to improve as a passer in his sophomore season if the Ravens want to be serious contenders.
He completed just 58.2 percent of his passes for 1,201 yards as a rookie. He also only threw for six touchdowns while running for five. Defenses will zone in on his rushing prowess this time around, forcing him to win with his arm.
I fully expect the Ravens to be a predominantly run-heavy offense again in 2019. Jackson has tools at his disposal that can wear out defenses over the course of 60 minutes. The power run will also set up the play action passing down the field. If Jackson executes to the extent I believe he can, he will be one of the most exciting quarterbacks in the NFL.
The upcoming season will be a test for Lamar Jackson. Taking a step forward as a second-year quarterback is crucial for his career and the team’s success.