Is Lamar Jackson Being Underrated as a Quarterback?

Lamar Jackson Named a Tier 2 Quarterback by League Insiders – Todd Monken Expected to Help Improvements

Introduction

In the latest edition of quarterback rankings, Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens has been named a Tier 2 quarterback and is now ranked as the 7th best quarterback in the NFL. The rankings were determined by votes from 50 league insiders, including general managers, head coaches, and coordinators. While some insiders commend Jackson’s ability to win when he is healthy, others question his skills as a passer. To address these concerns, the Ravens have hired Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken, who is expected to help Jackson improve in various areas.

Assessment of Lamar Jackson’s Ranking as a Tier 2 Quarterback

The ranking of Lamar Jackson as a Tier 2 quarterback raises questions about his overall standing in the league. While Tier 2 implies that Jackson is a very good quarterback, it also implies that he falls short of the elite quarterbacks who are recognized as Tier 1. It is important to note that these rankings are subjective and based on the opinions of industry insiders. However, it does provide an opportunity to reflect on Jackson’s strengths and weaknesses as a quarterback.

Strengths: Dual-Threat Abilities

One of Jackson’s most prominent strengths is his remarkable dual-threat abilities. His speed and agility make him a threat to run the ball, allowing him to extend plays and gain valuable yards on the ground. Jackson’s dynamic running ability has revolutionized the quarterback position and poses significant challenges for opposing defenses. His presence alone forces defenses to account for his mobility, opening up opportunities for the Ravens’ rushing attack.

Weaknesses: Consistency as a Passer

While Jackson’s rushing ability is unquestionably impressive, there have been legitimate concerns raised about his consistency as a passer. Some argue that he relies too heavily on his athleticism and struggles with accuracy and decision-making when throwing the ball. The ability to make quick reads and deliver precise passes is a fundamental requirement for any top-tier quarterback. To fully unlock his potential, Jackson must continue to develop his passing skills and become more reliable in crucial situations.

The Role of Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken

With the hiring of Todd Monken as Offensive Coordinator, the Ravens have signaled their intent to address the areas of improvement for Lamar Jackson. Monken brings a wealth of coaching experience, having previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Cleveland Browns. His expertise will be crucial in refining Jackson’s passing mechanics and overall understanding of the game.

Improving Passing Mechanics

One area that Monken is expected to focus on is Jackson’s passing mechanics. While Jackson possesses a powerful arm, he can sometimes rely on his natural talent rather than proper technique. Monken’s guidance can help Jackson refine his footwork, release, and overall throwing motion. By establishing a solid foundation of sound mechanics, Jackson can become more consistent and accurate as a passer.

Developing Game Awareness

Another aspect that Monken can contribute to is the development of Jackson’s game awareness. This includes improving his ability to read defenses, make quicker decisions, and demonstrate greater anticipation. While natural instincts play a significant role in a quarterback’s success, Monken can assist Jackson in honing these instincts and elevating his overall understanding of the game.

A Trade Suggestion: Deviating from the Main Focus

The linked article also suggests a trade idea involving the Ravens trading Devin Duvernay for Carlos Basham Jr. and a sixth-round pick. While trades can certainly impact a team’s dynamics and future prospects, it is important to recognize that the primary focus for the Ravens should be on maximizing Lamar Jackson’s potential. Any trade discussions should be evaluated carefully, considering the potential impact on the team’s offense as a whole and Jackson’s specific needs for improvement.

Assessing the Trade Suggestion

Without delving into the specifics of the suggested trade, it is worthwhile to note the importance of a balanced and well-rounded offense for the success of any quarterback. While adding talented players like Carlos Basham Jr. can strengthen the team’s defense, it is crucial for the Ravens to also prioritize improving their offensive weapons to maximize Jackson’s abilities. A trade involving Devin Duvernay should be carefully evaluated against the potential impact on the team’s offensive production and its ability to support Jackson’s development.

Editorial and Advice

Acknowledging Jackson’s Accomplishments

Lamar Jackson’s ranking as a Tier 2 quarterback should not overshadow the numerous accomplishments he has achieved in his young career. He was the 2019 NFL MVP, setting records for both his passing and rushing performances. It is important to recognize the extraordinary talent and unique style of play that Jackson brings to the field.

A Philosophical Discussion: Defining Quarterback Success

The discussion surrounding Lamar Jackson’s ranking brings up broader philosophical questions about how we define success for quarterbacks. Traditional notions of success have often centered around passing yards, touchdown passes, and completion percentage. However, Jackson challenges these conventional metrics with his groundbreaking rushing ability. Perhaps it is time to reassess our understanding of what makes a successful quarterback and include factors such as mobility, overall impact on the game, and ability to win.

Advice for Lamar Jackson and the Ravens

To Lamar Jackson: Embrace the opportunity to work with Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken. Focus on honing your passing mechanics and improving your game awareness. It is necessary to evolve as a passer while still taking advantage of your unique running abilities. Strive for consistency and demonstrate your growth as a complete quarterback.

To the Baltimore Ravens: Invest in offensive weapons that can complement Lamar Jackson’s unique skill set. A balanced and diverse offense will provide Jackson with the necessary support to elevate his game. Carefully evaluate any trade suggestions, considering the impact on the team’s offensive production and the development of its young quarterback.

In Conclusion: Lamar Jackson’s ranking as a Tier 2 quarterback provides an opportunity for reflection on his strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas of improvement. With the guidance of Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken and a carefully constructed offense, Jackson has the potential to become a truly elite quarterback who surpasses the limitations of conventional rankings.