Lamar Jackson reveals reason for shedding weight this summer (0:39)
Lamar Jackson explains that he decided to shed weight during the summer to enhance his agility. (0:39)
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Jamison Hensley, ESPN Staff WriterMay 22, 2024, 04:28 PM ET
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- Jamison Hensley is a journalist covering the Baltimore Ravens for ESPN. Jamison started with ESPN in 2011, reporting on the AFC North before devoting his attention solely to the Ravens from 2013. In 2018, he was awarded the Maryland Sportswriter of the Year by the National Sports Media Association, and he authored a book titled: Flying High: Stories of the Baltimore Ravens. From 2000 to 2011, he covered the Ravens for the Baltimore Sun.
OWINGS MILLS, Md. — One noticeable transformation in Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson since securing his second NFL Most Valuable Player honor is a decrease in weight.
Jackson suggested that he has shed pounds this summer in order to “improve his agility.”
Earlier in the month, Jackson disclosed that he was at 205 pounds, which marks a 25-pound reduction from his 2022 weight and 10 pounds less than last season. However, on Wednesday, Jackson chose not to disclose his current weight.
“I’m not exactly sure how many pounds I lost,” Jackson mentioned after the Ravens’ second OTA session. “As of now, I’m in the 200s. But I can say that it was crucial for me to increase my mobility a bit more, that’s all.”
At 27, Jackson is the most productive rushing quarterback in the NFL, accumulating 5,258 yards in his first six seasons in the league — a margin of 1,399 rushing yards more than any other quarterback. He registered the highest average of 5.5 yards per carry in the NFL last season, although it was his lowest in any complete season. Furthermore, his four runs of 20-plus yards last season marked the lowest in his career.
When asked about the reason behind the weight loss, Jackson replied, “Simply to enhance my agility and overall mobility.”
Regarding his speed, Jackson had nine runs in his initial three seasons where he reached a speed of 20 mph or more. In his last three seasons, there was only one instance where he hit a maximum speed of 20mph, and that did not occur last season.
Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers immediately noticed the change in Jackson upon seeing him for the first time this summer, describing him as ”lean.” Head coach John Harbaugh expressed no concerns about Jackson’s weight reduction.
“In my opinion, that’s just Lamar, he’s a professional,” Harbaugh stated. “He is well aware of what he’s doing and where he aims to be with that. My main priority is his fitness, being in the best shape of his life, and his continued efforts.”
After Jackson endured a career-high 38 sacks in 2021, he bulked up to 230 pounds in the following season. He weighed 215 pounds last season before deciding to lose additional weight this summer.
Jackson remarked that he could hardly recall the last time he felt as evasive as he does now.
“It’s been a while,” shared Jackson. “The situation with COVID slowed us down a bit, but I feel fantastic right now. I feel amazing.”
He does not perceive the weight loss as having an impact on how he absorbs hits.
“We put our bodies on the line every single game and practice,” he stated. “I think the weight is not really a significant factor.”
How important is weight management for athletes like Lamar Jackson in improving their performance on the field?
N’t give you an exact number right now.”
Jackson, who has been known for his speed and elusiveness on the field, believes that shedding weight will help him become even more agile and quick on his feet.
“I feel great out there,” Jackson said. “I feel like I’m moving even better than before. I’m excited to see how it translates to the field.”
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh also expressed his excitement about Jackson’s physical transformation.
“Lamar is always looking for ways to improve and get better,” Harbaugh said. “His dedication to his craft is unmatched, and I have no doubt that this weight loss will only enhance his abilities on the field.”
As the Ravens continue their offseason workouts, Jackson’s agility and speed will be something to keep an eye on as he looks to lead his team to success in the upcoming season.
