Lamar Jackson's 2023 season was filled with anticipation and high expectations. With a renewed focus and a determined mindset, Jackson aimed to silence his critics and elevate his game to new heights. Throughout the year, Ravens coaches and players acknowledged the change in Jackson's mentality, and it was evident in his performances on the field.
However, despite his remarkable regular season that positioned him as a strong contender for his second NFL MVP award, and the Ravens' historic conference championship appearance at home, Jackson fell short in the AFC title game against the Chiefs. While he had moments of brilliance, his overall performance lacked the consistency and rhythm necessary to propel his team to victory.
Jackson had a strong supporting cast, including rookie receiver Zay Flowers, star tight end Mark Andrews, second-year tight end Isaiah Likely, and the veteran presence of Odell Beckham Jr. Additionally, under the guidance of new playcaller Todd Monken, Jackson showcased his abilities as a pocket passer while still utilizing his athleticism and running skills effectively.
Unfortunately, even with a dominant defense that led the league in points allowed, sacks, and takeaways, the Ravens couldn't overcome the Chiefs' stout defense and their own occasional lack of discipline. The offense struggled to find its footing, and aside from Flowers' standout performance, the skill players failed to contribute significantly. Costly mistakes, such as penalties and turnovers, diminished their chances of closing the gap on the scoreboard.
It's essential to note that the blame cannot solely be placed on Jackson. Football is a team sport, and the Ravens' collective effort fell short on that fateful day. However, in the critical moments when the team needed him most, Jackson couldn't carry them to victory as he had done in the past. This contrasted sharply with Patrick Mahomes, whose exceptional performance propelled the Chiefs to their fourth Super Bowl appearance in five years.
Although Jackson's inability to lead the Ravens to a championship shouldn't be held against him entirely, it does highlight the gap between him and elite quarterbacks like Mahomes. Jackson's growth and improvement throughout the season were undeniable, but this particular stage illuminated the areas where he still has room to develop and catch up with the best in the league.
Regardless of the outcome, it's important to recognize the strides Jackson made in 2023. He showed the ability to evolve as a passer while maintaining his unique playmaking style. His record-setting extension and his impressive regular season play solidified his status as a franchise quarterback. There's no doubt that Jackson will continue to refine his skills and work towards reaching the championship level.
As the NFL playoffs progress and the Super Bowl approaches, it's clear that becoming a champion requires overcoming the challenges posed by other champions. While Jackson isn't there yet, he demonstrated considerable growth and potential in 2023. With the right support and continued development, there's no doubt that he will remain a prominent figure in the league and have future opportunities to chase the ultimate goal – a Super Bowl victory.
Ben Arthur, AFC South reporter for FOX Sports, provides valuable insights and analysis in his coverage of Lamar Jackson's journey. Having previously worked as a Titans beat writer and covered the Seattle Seahawks, Arthur brings a wealth of experience to his reporting. To stay updated with his work, you can follow him on Twitter at @benyarthur.
