Lamar Arrives: Ravens Star Joins Voluntary Workouts

Lamar Jackson Shows Up: Ravens Quarterback Makes Key Offseason Appearance

The Baltimore Ravens are kicking off a new era, and their franchise player is leading the way. Lamar Jackson, the two-time MVP, arrived for the team’s voluntary offseason workouts on Monday. This move signals a fresh start for the Ravens under new leadership and with their offense built more than ever around their star quarterback.

For years, Jackson has often skipped these voluntary sessions, attending only one practice last spring before mandatory mini-camp. But this year is different. With a new head coach and offensive coordinator, and the team’s future clearly centered on Jackson, his presence from day one is seen as a massive statement.

Analyst Dan Orlovsky called Jackson’s arrival the “most important thing that could have happened up until now for Baltimore.” He sees this as the “start of the second version of Lamar in Baltimore.” After a season where the Ravens fell short of expectations and Jackson had a losing record as a starter for the first time in his career due to injuries, this new chapter is crucial.

Jackson is entering what is typically the prime of a quarterback’s career. The big question now is whether he can lead the team to its highest potential under this new coaching staff. “Can he play his very best football under a new regime when it matters the most?” Orlovsky questioned. This is similar to the situation in Buffalo with Josh Allen, where one player’s ability to take that next step could define their season.

Setting the Tone for Success

The importance of Jackson’s attendance goes beyond just being on the field. “It’s a tone setter,” explained analyst D. Wood. “It matters in the organization.” Having the face of the franchise present from the very beginning helps establish the attitude and goals for the upcoming season.

The Ravens have also added significant talent, including running back Derrick Henry and defensive end Trey Hendrickson. While they didn’t land a top pass rusher like Max Crosby, the additions aim to bolster the team significantly, and Jackson’s commitment is the key to unlocking their potential.

NFL Offseason Program Kicks Off: Other Teams in Focus

The Ravens are not the only team starting their offseason programs. Eight other teams are back in action, sparking “what if” scenarios across the league.

What If Deshaun Watson Starts Week 1?

In Cleveland, the question is whether Deshaun Watson can win the starting job for Week 1. Analysts expressed doubt, noting that Watson hasn’t played at a high level since 2020. The Browns need more competition at the quarterback position, as their future at the spot seems to be a year away.

Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers

If Aaron Rodgers were to retire instead of joining the Pittsburgh Steelers, it could actually be a positive move for the organization. The Steelers need to find their next long-term quarterback rather than continuing to rely on short-term fixes.

Jackson Dart and the Giants

Could Jackson Dart lead the New York Giants from worst to first? With talented players at key positions and a potentially improved offensive line under new leadership, a significant leap from Dart could make the Giants contenders in the NFC East. “I was such a big fan of his coming out last year,” one analyst said, believing Dart has the potential for a “Drake May-like leap.”

The Giants, holding the fifth pick in the upcoming draft, have several options. Adding offensive playmakers like Jeremiah Love or Carnell Tate could boost their offense, especially if Malik Neighbors stays healthy. However, some debate exists on whether prioritizing a running back is the right move for a young quarterback, with one analyst questioning how often a running back truly changes a quarterback’s trajectory.

Raiders’ QB Situation: A Tough Transition Ahead

In Las Vegas, the Raiders face a different kind of challenge with quarterback Fernando Mendoza. His transition to the Raiders’ offense under new coordinator Clint Kubiak will be difficult.

Kubiak’s scheme heavily features snaps taken from under center, a style Mendoza rarely used in college. “Fernando Mendoza took five snaps total from underneath the center in his college career,” one analyst noted. This is a stark contrast to Kubiak’s history, where over 50% of snaps have come from under center in recent years.

This drastic change means Mendoza will likely need significant time, possibly two to three years, to become comfortable. The presence of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins could provide valuable guidance and allow Mendoza to develop without immediate pressure, potentially helping the Raiders build for the future.

“This is going to be a drastically different experience for Mendoza when it comes to operating the quarterback position.”

While the Raiders have typically made questionable decisions in the past, this move to develop a young quarterback with a veteran mentor could finally be the right direction for the franchise.

Source: 'IT'S A BIG DEAL!' 👀 – Dan Orlovsky on Lamar Jackson arriving for voluntary workouts | Get Up (YouTube)