KEY POINTS

  • Lamar Jackson has reported to the Ravens' mandatory minicamp
  • Jackson had not been seen with the franchise this offseason as he opted to workout on his own
  • The unanimous 2018 NFL MVP showcased an imporved passing game this summer

Fans of the Baltimore Ravens felt as if a weight was lifted off of their shoulders when their No. 1 quarterback in Lamar Jackson reported to the team’s minicamp and reassured the club faithful that he is committed to helping the franchise make a Super Bowl run this season.

“What’s going on, guys? We’re back at the King’s Castle. I hope you’re ready for the season because I sure am. Let’s do it, Flock Nation,” Jackson said in a short video posted to the Ravens’ official Twitter account.

There were fears that Jackson would decide to hold out from training camp as he is still deeply embroiled in contract negotiations with the Ravens.

Anxious anticipation went up to another level after Jackson did not show up at the Ravens’ organized team practice activities (OTAs) at the end of May, with some even claiming that it was a sign of Jackson not wanting to commit to the franchise.

However, highly regarded cornerback Marlon Humphrey shared a short video as well of him jokingly “finding” Jackson within the Ravens offices.

Jackson not joining the team’s OTAs was a reminder to fans that those activities are completely voluntary, and a player can opt to decide to work out on his own with his own set of trainers--something that the unanimous 2018 NFL MVP has done throughout the offseason.

To his credit, he has been showing off a more powerful arm while throwing at short distances, possibly implying that there will be a lot more shallow cross plays being ran for the weapons at his disposal, particularly tight end Mark Andrews.

During this offseason, Jackson also worked on his deep ball accuracy, a constant pain point for the fans as Jackson does have a tendency to target short to medium-range receivers rather than throw deep ones like that of Aaron Rodgers.

All in all, Jackson has shown a commitment to winning in Baltimore and it only seems like it will be a matter of time before both sides come to the table with an agreement and leave that meeting with a massive extension for him.

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