Ravens star Lamar Jackson is motivated to prove doubters wrong

In his rookie campaign, it saw rookie quarterback Lamar Jackson made headway grabbing control of the starting job away from Joe Flacco.

Although Jackson did help guide the Ravens to the playoffs, there are still many questions about his ability on the field involving his passing skills beyond his unique ability to play-make with his legs as a runner. All of this has motivated the second-year quarterback to prove those doubters wrong in the 2019 campaign, according to Jamison Hensley of ESPN.

“It motivates me a lot,” Jackson said. “Make them eat their words, that’s all.”

The Ravens had much success last year with Jackson under center, going 6-1 while leading the team to the playoffs. Although they fell in the wildcard round to the Los Angeles Chargers, it was a promising campaign that has given way to much optimism.

Baltimore is clearly confident that Jackson can develop into a dual-threat quarterback, but it will require him to take a major step forward with his arm. He was limited his rookie year with the throws he made with what was more of a read-option type of offense with heavy reliance on his legs rather than his throwing ability.

It should be noted that Jackson finished 30th in completion rate (58%) and 31st in off-target percentage (23%). These are two areas in need of growth in order for him to become a successful quarterback in the NFL for many years down the line.

If he can grow in that regard, it certainly makes the Ravens a viable threat in the AFC to possibly contend for more than just a division title.