Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson expressed his enthusiasm this week as he finally had the opportunity to work with wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr., a player he has long admired.
Jackson revealed that he had actually requested the Ravens to sign Beckham during the offseason, and now the two are joining forces on the field.
He spoke glowingly about OBJ and what it means to team up with him.
“Odell is a legend to a lot of us [with] what he did early in his career and the [2021 season] when he was with the Rams,” Jackson said. “Odell is him, one of those guys.”
Beckham, 30, participated in his first practices with the Ravens after signing a one-year, $15 million contract with the team back in April.
Jackson wasted no time in praising his new teammate, noting Beckham’s smooth practice style, crisp route running, and great hands.
“His skills are undeniable. He’s a tremendous athlete,” he said. “I’m excited to see what we can do together.”
Selected as the 12th pick in the 2014 draft, Beckham quickly made a name for himself, earning the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award and surpassing 1,300 yards receiving in each of his first three seasons with the New York Giants.
In 2021, Beckham achieved a career milestone by winning his first Super Bowl as a member of the Los Angeles Rams.
However, he has faced several setbacks due to injuries, including his second major knee injury, which he is currently working to overcome. Despite this, Beckham has become the center of attention for Jackson and his teammates, who offer their support and admiration.
“Guys come up to you, and it’s like, ‘Oh, I remember watching you in middle school,'” Beckham chuckled. “And it’s like they start to make you feel old, and I think I know what my role will be, as far as coming out and being able to show it every day and being able to lead.”
The Ravens have struggled with their passing attack in recent years, with their wide receivers ranking last in the league in receiving yards in three out of the past four seasons.
The team is hopeful that Beckham’s addition will help improve their aerial game and provide a higher level of trust for Jackson.
“I hope he brings a certain level of trust,” commented Ravens Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken. “I think that’s developed over time. That’s why it’s great that [Beckham] is here because you get to work together.”
Going forward, Jackson will reportedly be passing more than ever – which may not necessarily be a good thing.. But having OBJ in the fold certainly won’t hurt.