Why did Lamar Jackson refuse to run the 40-yard dash? Inside Ravens superstar’s NFL Combine issue

For years, the NFL Combine has become a way for NFL players to showcase their talent to interested teams. An event lasting for hours, there are plenty of activities one can take part in. Lamar Jackson, currently with the Baltimore Ravens, always wanted to be drafted as a quarterback.

Irrespective of the result, the combine is essential for players and how teams evaluate them. Sometimes, poor performances during the NFL Combine can directly affect an athlete's draft number.

Jackson, the Ravens' No. 32 overall pick in the first round, refused to run the 40-yard dash. Apparently, his decision came after a team wanted to see how he would play if converted to a wide receiver. Jackson decided that he would only throw and not take part in any of the speed drills.

He revealed details about the Combine while on the Ravens podcast, shortly after he was drafted by the team.

"It was a Chargers scout who told me about it. He was the first one to come to me about it. I'm like, 'What?' He caught me off guard with it.

He added:

"I even made a face at first like, 'What?' I thought he was trying to be funny, but he kept going with it. So it just became blown out of proportion".

Lamar Jackson at the Pittsburgh Steelers v Baltimore Ravens game

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Can Lamar Jackson hit the market as a free agent soon?

Since last season, the Ravens and Jackson have been trying to find common ground for a long-term deal. However, the team and the QB haven't come to any conclusion about the numbers yet.

Though reports stated that Jackson was looking for a guaranteed deal mirroring Deshaun Watson's, Stephen A. Smith said otherwise. As per the analyst, Jackson was never asked for a fully guaranteed deal. Smith reportedly spoke to Jackson's people, who confirmed this information.

In September, the Ravens offered Jackson a five-year, $250 million contract, which Jackson declined. Out of the total, $133 million was guaranteed. However, reports added that Jackson wanted more guaranteed money.

Lamar Jackson at the Denver Broncos v Baltimore Ravens game

With Jackson not playing a complete season with the Ravens, the team might be hesitant to offer him a contract.