Lamar Jackson Faces Pivotal NFL Season

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is stepping into a crucial year of his significant NFL career. At 29, Jackson is aware of the ticking clock. He shared with CBS Sports’ Evan Washburn, “Going into Year 9, time is ticking. You’re only getting older. I’m not getting younger. I’m seeing new faces in the league and different guys around us.” He emphasized the ongoing urgency, stating, “Once I get one Super Bowl ring, it will still be urgent to get another.”

To address his playoff challenges, Jackson is fostering camaraderie with his receivers. On Wednesday, he bonded with Zay Flowers and Ja’Kobi Lane, tapping into his youthful side. Jackson posted an Instagram Story video showing him with Flowers and Lane on a roller coaster at the Mall of America. As soon as the ride dropped, their screams and laughter could be heard even as they fell out of the frame.

The Ravens are in Minnesota for a joint practice with the Minnesota Vikings, ahead of a preseason game at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis on Saturday.

Jackson, a two-time NFL MVP and three-time All-Pro, faced an injury-riddled season last year, limiting his participation to 13 games. Baltimore ended the season with an 8-9 record and missed the playoffs, resulting in the dismissal of longtime head coach John Harbaugh. Jesse Minter, the former defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers, has taken over as head coach. He is under significant pressure to secure victories rapidly.

Jackson and the Ravens will commence their pursuit of a Super Bowl with their season opener against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, Sept. 13.