The NFL has long been associated with traditional ways of playing the game, from the power running game to the pocket passer. However, in recent years, a new type of quarterback has emerged, one who can beat you with both his arm and his legs, and who doesn’t necessarily fit the mold of the prototypical NFL quarterback. One of the most successful of these quarterbacks is Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens, who recently made history by becoming the highest-paid player in NFL history, despite his unconventional playing style.
Jackson’s style of play is characterized by his ability to run the ball, often taking off down the field when his primary targets are covered. This is not a new style of play in football, but it is relatively new in the NFL, where quarterbacks are expected to stand in the pocket and deliver accurate passes downfield. However, Jackson’s success in the NFL has proven that this traditional approach is not the only way to win games.
Jackson burst onto the scene in 2019, his first full season as the starting quarterback for the Ravens, and quickly became one of the most exciting players in the league. He led the Ravens to a 14-2 record and was named the league’s Most Valuable Player, thanks in large part to his ability to make plays with his legs. He rushed for 1,206 yards and seven touchdowns, while also throwing for 3,127 yards and 36 touchdowns.
Many analysts and fans were skeptical of Jackson’s ability to continue to play at such a high level, especially given his style of play, which is often associated with a high risk of injury. However, Jackson has continued to excel on the field, leading the Ravens to the playoffs in both 2020 and 2021. He has also continued to improve as a passer, making him an even more dangerous weapon for the Ravens.
In March 2021, Jackson signed a contract extension with the Ravens that made him the highest-paid player in NFL history, with a reported total value of $240 million over five years. This contract was significant not only because of the amount of money involved, but also because it was a clear signal that the Ravens believe in Jackson’s ability to continue to play at a high level, despite his unconventional style.
The signing of Jackson’s contract was met with mixed reactions from fans and analysts. Some saw it as a clear indication that the Ravens were committed to building their team around Jackson and his unique skill set, while others questioned whether Jackson was worth such a large investment, given the risks associated with his playing style.
Despite the concerns of some, Jackson has continued to prove his worth on the field. He has already set numerous NFL records, including the most rushing yards by a quarterback in a single season, and shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, his recent contract extension may give him even more motivation to continue to improve and prove his worth as one of the best quarterbacks in the league.
One of the most significant impacts of Jackson’s success in the NFL has been the way it has challenged traditional thinking about the quarterback position. For years, the NFL has valued quarterbacks who can stand in the pocket and deliver accurate passes downfield, often at the expense of other skills, such as mobility and the ability to make plays with your feet. However, Jackson’s success has shown that these other skills can be just as valuable, if not more so, than the traditional skills associated with the quarterback position.
Jackson’s success has also paved the way for other quarterbacks who don’t fit the traditional mold, such as Kyler Murray of the Arizona Cardinals and Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles. These players have shown that there is more than one way to play quarterback in the NFL, and that success can be found even if you don’t fit the traditional mold.
