Last Draft Pick to MVP: The Dramatic Rise of Lamar Jackson

Lamar Jackson was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens as the 32nd and final pick of the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft. It was thought by fans, analysts, and the Ravens management themselves that the Louisville Cardinals product would serve no more than a squad player. Draft pundits were of the opinion that he would switch from quarterback to wide receiver.

Two years later, everyone realized they’d never been more wrong about a player than Lamar Jackson. The Pompano Beach-born quarterback transformed from a doubted potential to an NFL-flying superstar. He was unanimously named the league’s MVP in 2019, only his second season in the NFL, adding it to the Heisman Trophy he won in his college days.

Stepping into the Professional World

Jackson entered the world of professional football as a player determined to prove his doubters wrong. He stepped into the Ravens’ facility with an attitude and ambition beyond that of a rookie, aiming for big things yet to come. The young quarterback immediately began working on the mechanics of his passing, while adding new wrinkles to his game.

Lamar Jackson spent his first year with the Ravens as a backup to veteran Joe Flacco. He showed some flashes of brilliance, but was far from being a top player. He had trouble reading defenses and often panicked while making passing decisions. However, he worked diligently with coaches, learning new plays and developing more trust in his receivers.

The appointment of Greg Roman as the Ravens' offensive coordinator elevated Lamar Jackson's ranks within the team. He worked with Roman to create an offense that gave him the freedom to use his unique scrambling ability to make plays that unsettled defenses. Jackson was adequately able to exploit defenses in the NFL with his arm as well as his legs.

Lamar Jackson MVP and the Route to Bigger Things

Lamar Jackson became one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL in his second season in the league. He led the Baltimore Ravens to their best-ever regular-season record in the 2019 season and was awarded the league's MVP. The season saw him record a passer rating of 113.3 for 3,127 yards and 36 touchdowns, while also making 6 interceptions.

Jackson's rise within the NFL tells the story of how hard work and dedication can help achieve great things. His incredible transition from the last draft pick to an NFL MVP within two seasons is one of the most exciting grass-to-grace stories to narrate in the league. Jackson was able to prove his doubters wrong by achieving the greatest individual feat in the NFL.

Lamar Jackson has since grown to become one of the most exciting players in the league. He is now an undoubted superstar, making waves in the league every season. Still just 26, Jackson has a long career ahead of him in the NFL. He is expected to end his playing time in the league as one of the best quarterbacks to grace the game.