It’s tempting to point fingers at Lamar Jackson for the Baltimore Ravens’ playoff struggles, but that would be shortsighted. Jackson, with two MVP awards and possibly a third on the way, is one of the NFL’s most elite players. His dynamic playmaking ability keeps defenses guessing and elevates the Ravens to perennial playoff contenders. Blaming him for the team’s inability to reach the Super Bowl is unfair and misses the bigger picture.
The real issue lies in the team’s inability to maximize Jackson’s unique skill set. Despite his generational talent, the Ravens’ offensive scheme often feels outdated. They’ve leaned heavily on a run-first philosophy, neglecting the need for top-tier wide receivers who can stretch the field. Zay Flowers showed promise, but injuries exposed a lack of depth in the receiving corps. The Ravens must evolve their offensive approach to complement Jackson’s strengths and give him the tools to succeed in the postseason.
Lamar Jackson isn’t the problem; he’s the solution. Baltimore’s front office needs to treat him like the franchise cornerstone he is, rather than simply relying on his athleticism to cover for systemic flaws. Until they surround him with a more dynamic supporting cast, the narrative of “Playoff Lamar” will persist, no matter how unfair it may be.
The Ravens should focus on fixing their roster and offensive philosophy rather than entertaining any thoughts of moving on from Jackson. He’s their best chance at long-term success, and the sooner they recognize that, the better their chances of hoisting another Lombardi Trophy.