The Baltimore Ravens Quarterback, a Two-Time NFL MVP, Continues to Seek Improvement in Key Area of His Play

Lamar Jackson, the dynamic and electrifying quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens, is a name that resonates with fans, analysts, and players across the NFL. Known for his incredible athleticism, arm strength, and ability to create magic with his legs, Jackson has established himself as one of the league’s most exciting quarterbacks since he was drafted in 2018. But while Jackson has already achieved monumental success—winning the NFL MVP award twice (2019 and 2023)—he is far from satisfied. Despite his numerous accolades and the growing respect he has earned across the league, Jackson is constantly seeking to evolve and refine his game. One area, in particular, that Jackson has acknowledged needing to improve is his passing accuracy, specifically in the short and intermediate passing game.

Jackson’s unique blend of skills—his ability to scramble, extend plays, and outrun defenders—has made him a nightmare for defenses. His ability to throw deep has never been in question, as evidenced by his highlight-reel passes, including several long bombs that have lit up the scoreboard for the Ravens. However, despite these electrifying moments, there has been one consistent critique of his game: his inconsistency in the short to intermediate passing game, especially under pressure. While his long ball is explosive and capable of breaking a game wide open, Jackson’s accuracy and timing on shorter throws often leave room for improvement.

Over the years, Jackson has become accustomed to defenders playing off of him, anticipating the inevitable scramble, and while he has often been able to make something out of nothing, his ability to move the chains consistently with short, timed passes is an area he has worked to improve. As of the 2023 season, Jackson himself has admitted that this is one area of his game that he recognizes as crucial to taking his career to the next level. Being able to complete quick throws, thread the needle on slants and outs, and hit the backs and tight ends in stride on checkdowns is an essential part of becoming an elite, multi-dimensional quarterback in the NFL. This is not something Jackson can rely on his legs to fix; it’s a fundamental area where consistent growth is necessary to reach his peak.

The first step in this evolution was Jackson’s commitment to improving his mechanics. While his natural athleticism has always given him a raw advantage, the mechanics of throwing a football—particularly in the quick-release, pinpoint accuracy realm—are paramount. Coaches have long emphasized the need for Jackson to refine his footwork, particularly when delivering throws from the pocket. His natural ability to avoid sacks and move in and out of the pocket with ease has sometimes led to a reliance on improvised, off-balance throws. At times, this has caused accuracy issues, particularly when throwing to the sideline or trying to thread passes in tight windows. The solution, as Jackson knows, is to work on staying grounded in the pocket, maintaining his base, and making more disciplined, deliberate throws with improved precision.

In addition to mechanics, another aspect of Jackson’s development has been his work with Ravens’ wide receivers and coaches to improve timing and chemistry. While he has always been able to connect with his deep-threat receivers, including Marquise Brown (now with the Arizona Cardinals), and a group of talented tight ends, it’s the consistency in shorter routes—especially across the middle—that Jackson has focused on. Short slants, crossing routes, and quick outs require precise timing, trust in the route-running ability of the receivers, and a firm understanding of defensive coverages. Jackson’s progress in these areas has been visible, as his rapport with both rookie and veteran receivers has grown. His ability to read defenses post-snap, anticipate the coverage, and deliver an accurate ball on time will be critical to his sustained success in the NFL.

In 2023, Jackson also began working closely with quarterback coaches who specialized in the mental aspects of the game. While physical preparation is crucial, the mental game—the ability to read defenses, quickly process information, and make adjustments on the fly—is just as vital. The fact that Jackson has worked tirelessly to improve his film study and mental approach speaks volumes about his desire for greatness. He has always been a player who thrives on competition, and as he matures as a quarterback, his understanding of defensive schemes, route concepts, and defensive back tendencies is rapidly evolving. In this regard, Jackson’s growth is evident, as he’s become more adept at making adjustments during the game, identifying mismatches, and understanding the nuances of what opposing defenses are trying to do.

Jackson’s willingness to embrace criticism and self-improvement is a trait that sets him apart from many players who might rest on their laurels after receiving two MVP awards. The fact that he consistently pushes himself to get better, even with his remarkable achievements, speaks to his dedication and hunger to become the best version of himself. When he acknowledges the areas of his game that require improvement, it’s not out of frustration, but rather a commitment to continuous growth. This growth mindset is what has allowed Jackson to become one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the NFL, and it will continue to fuel his quest to improve his passing game.

One of the reasons Jackson’s passing game, particularly on short and intermediate throws, has been under scrutiny is because of his dual-threat nature. Defenders know that Jackson can break away for huge gains with his legs at any time, which can create hesitation in their coverage. This hesitation sometimes causes Jackson to hold onto the ball a bit too long, waiting for a lane to open up, which can impact his accuracy. Coaches and analysts have stressed the importance of Jackson learning to make quicker, more decisive throws within the pocket. Having that quick trigger and the ability to release the ball under pressure will allow Jackson to maximize his potential as a passer, complementing his already lethal rushing attack.

Of course, improving as a passer is not a challenge that Jackson is facing alone. The Ravens organization, from general manager Eric DeCosta to head coach John Harbaugh, has been dedicated to providing Jackson with the tools to succeed. Baltimore has invested in building a solid and diverse receiving corps, and their offensive philosophy has evolved to incorporate more balance, allowing Jackson to showcase his development as a passer. By surrounding him with talented receivers, including first-round pick Zay Flowers, the Ravens are creating a situation where Jackson has the opportunity to grow into a more well-rounded quarterback.

The Ravens also understand that Jackson’s ability to elevate his passing game will significantly impact their offense’s versatility. The team’s ground game has long been one of the most effective in the league, but in order for the offense to reach its full potential, the passing game must also be consistent and efficient. With Jackson continuing to improve his accuracy and decision-making, the Ravens could become one of the most dangerous and well-rounded teams in the NFL. Defenses won’t be able to key in solely on stopping Jackson’s legs, and his development as a passer will make him even more difficult to defend.

Ultimately, Lamar Jackson’s continued commitment to improving his passing game demonstrates his belief that he can become even more than just a dual-threat quarterback. He wants to be a complete player who can win games from the pocket as well as with his legs. His self-awareness, humility, and relentless work ethic serve as the foundation for his evolution, and if he can improve his short and intermediate passing accuracy, he could ascend to even greater heights. As the Ravens prepare for another season of high expectations, Jackson’s journey of self-improvement will be one of the most fascinating storylines to follow, as he looks to cement his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks of his era.