The last few hours at the Baltimore Ravens‘ facility have drawn plenty of attention, largely due to the noticeable absence of Lamar Jackson from OTAs. While many speculated the situation might be tied to ongoing contract extension talks between the star QB and the franchise, John Harbaugh chose to shift the focus toward what Jackson can bring to the team ahead of next NFL season.
As teams across the league begin making early moves in preparation for the upcoming season, the Ravens are no exception. However, the absence of their quarterback during offseason workouts has sparked speculation about what the future holds for the former Louisville standout.
When asked by the media about the situation, HC Harbaugh made it clear that his focus remains on what players can contribute once they’re on the field, rather than on attendance at voluntary Organized Team Activities.
“You measure, for any player, how they play,” he said, via team transcript. “I’m not measuring, really, the attendance. I mean it’s a voluntary camp, so I’m not measuring that. I love being out here, and I think all the players do. And when Lamar’s out here, I promise you, he loves being out here.“
Head coach John Harbaugh of the Baltimore Ravens and quarterback Lamar Jackson #8 embrace prior to the AFC Divisional Playoff game against the Tennessee Titans at M&T Bank Stadium on January 11, 2020 in Baltimore, Maryland.
He also added: “I’m not taking any position on it or judging it, or whatever. Lamar, the day he was out of here, played great. I could see he was in great shape, threw the ball great, made the right reads, knew the offense in an excellent kind of way. I thought he was fantastic. And when he comes back and practices, when that happens, I expect him to play at that level. That’s what you measure.“
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NFL News: Ravens’ head coach John Harbaugh sends clear message about Aaron Rodgers as starting quarterback of Steelers
Todd Monken places his trust in Lamar Jackson
The Ravens have been working with Todd Monken as offensive coordinator on Harbaugh’s staff for a few seasons now, and his chemistry with Lamar Jackson is well established. Monken knows he has one of the league’s top quarterbacks on his roster, and he’s confident that his return will further elevate the offense.
“I always feel good about Lamar. He always comes in ready,” Ravens offensive coordinator said Tuesday, via the team website. “He loves to play football. He loves his teammates. He loves the Ravens. … He’ll be ready too, and we’ll be ready to go against Buffalo come Sunday night.”
Ravens set sights on season opener
Monken’s remarks about his excitement to face the Bills refer to the Ravens’ season opener in the upcoming NFL campaign — a matchup they hope will set the tone for a promising start as they aim to establish themselves as serious title contenders.
- @ Buffalo Bills, September 7th
- vs Cleveland Browns, September 14th
- vs Detroit Lions, September 22nd
- @ Kansas City Chiefs, September 28th
- vs Houston Texans, October 5th
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