In the 2018 NFL Draft, the Baltimore Ravens made a pivotal decision by trading up to select quarterback Lamar Jackson with the 32nd overall pick. This move has since proven to be transformative for the franchise, as Jackson has developed into one of the league’s most dynamic and accomplished players.
Jackson’s impact was immediate. In his rookie season, he took over as the starting quarterback midway through the year, leading the Ravens to a 6–1 record in their final seven games and securing a playoff berth. His unique dual-threat capabilities—combining exceptional passing skills with electrifying rushing ability—quickly set him apart from his peers.
In 2019, Jackson’s performance reached historic levels. He became the youngest quarterback to receive the NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) award at 22, earning it unanimously—a rare feat in NFL history. That season, he led the league with 36 touchdown passes and set a new single-season record for rushing yards by a quarterback with 1,206 yards.
Jackson continued to excel in subsequent seasons. He earned his second MVP award in 2023, showcasing his consistent elite performance. By 2024, he had been selected as a First-Team All-Pro three times and had made multiple Pro Bowl appearances, solidifying his status among the NFL’s elite quarterbacks.
Beyond individual accolades, Jackson’s leadership has been instrumental in the Ravens’ success. His ability to adapt and innovate on the field has redefined the quarterback position, blending traditional passing roles with unprecedented rushing prowess. This versatility has made the Ravens’ offense one of the most formidable in the league.
Off the field, Jackson has ventured into various business endeavors, including launching a soul food restaurant, a clothing line, a production company, and a record label. Recently, he announced his acting debut with a cameo in the television series “Power Book III: Raising Kanan,” portraying a character named E-Tone.
Lamar Jackson’s journey from the 32nd pick in the 2018 draft to a multi-MVP-winning quarterback exemplifies the impact of strategic drafting and the emergence of a new era in quarterback play. His story continues to inspire and redefine expectations within the NFL.
