Lamar Jackson Faces Crucial Season with Baltimore Ravens

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is preparing for a significant year in his acclaimed NFL career. “Going into Year 9, it’s like, man, time is ticking,” Jackson, 29, expressed to CBS Sports’ Evan Washburn recently. “You’re only getting older. I’m not getting younger. I’m seeing a lot of different new faces into the league and different guys we’re surrounded with.” He emphasized the urgency, saying, “Time is ticking, and the urgency is always high level. Once I get one [Super Bowl ring], it’s still going to be urgent to get another.”

Jackson’s performance this season will rely on his connection with his receivers. He aimed to strengthen his bond with Zay Flowers and Ja’Kobi Lane by sharing a moment of fun. On Wednesday, Jackson shared a video on his Instagram Story of himself with Flowers and Lane on a roller coaster at the Mall of America. As the ride plummeted, their screams and laughter echoed, highlighting the camaraderie.

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

Jackson, a two-time NFL MVP and three-time All-Pro, dealt with injuries last season, limiting his play to 13 games. Baltimore ended with an 8-9 record, missing out on the playoffs. This led to the dismissal of long-serving head coach John Harbaugh. Jesse Minter, former Los Angeles Chargers defensive coordinator, took over, facing the immediate challenge to succeed.

The team, along with Jackson, aims to capture the elusive Super Bowl title. Their journey begins against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, September 13.