Is sensational Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson a deserving NFL MVP after a stellar season?

Does Lamar Jackson deserve NFL MVP? According to respected NFL analyst and former legendary Baylor quarterback great Robert Griffin III (RG3), stats are like bikinis. They show you a lot, but not everything. He may be right. 

After losing stud All-Pro Tight End Mark Andrews to serious injury earlier on this season, many doubted that the Ravens and Jackson could keep up the impressive momentum and make a serious push for the Superbowl on 11th February. How wrong they were. 

Jackson has been outstanding this season. The 26-year-old former 32nd pick in round 1 of the 2018 draft was told to play wide receiver by former GM Bill Polian and an unnamed LA Chargers scout. How foolish do they look now? Massively.

Head coach John Harbaugh must be delighted they got Jackson to finally sign that enormous 5 year $260,000,000 contract extension. Bringing in former Georgia Bulldogs OC Todd Monken has proven a masterstroke too as he has unlocked the full potential of the (formally) much-maligned quarterback. 

Sitting in the pocket used to be a rarity for number 8, now it’s a common occurrence. That’s what great coaching does you see. It inspires confidence. Having a solid O-Line and a decent running game certainly helps.

The Ravens have been certainly helped by former Michigan DC Mike Macdonald too. After learning from John’s brother Jim Harbaugh and installing an almost identical defence to the Wolverines, this has helped their QB avoid having to play hero-ball like Josh Allen at the Bills. He looks more relaxed and can slice opponents apart, rather than trying to run for an unsustainable 100 yards and 3 touchdowns each game.

With the number 1 seed locked up in the AFC, a home-field advantage ready and a handy bye awaiting, Jackson has been rested for week 18 along with veteran WR Odell Beckham Jr. 

Ravens fans will surely be hoping they get back in-form safety Kyle Hamilton, speedy rookie WR Zay Flowers and bulky guard Kevin Zeitler before the playoffs as their growing injury list is a concern for an expectant fanbase.

Lamar Jackson surely deserves the MVP nod. He’s been consistent, has led his team well and hasn’t had too many interceptions. He hasn’t been flashy with his running like before. His throwing has improved. Winning it all however and getting the ring, would cement his status and legacy forever.

Sources: NFL.com, X