CROWS-JACKSON (AP)
Lamar Jackson has a simple explanation for why he decided to participate in voluntary practices this year for the Baltimore Ravens.
“A new offensive line,” he said. “I’m starting to master it before the season. Because the season has come, although we still have two months. But I still want to learn a new offense and be with my teammates.
The Ravens agreed to a five-year, $260 million deal with Jackson late last month. His presence in the gym on Wednesday was another positive sign. Jackson was absent from this side last year, though he made it to the mandatory camp.
His first visit this year comes as the Ravens prepare for the season under new offensive coordinator Todd Monken. Jackson is confident that Baltimore can create big plays in the passing game and less so in the run, even his carries.
“We’ve been waiting for a long time,” he said. “Running can only take you so far, and with these new teams and offenses in the league, I feel like that’s needed. With coordinator Todd Monken, what I see in this offense, it just looks terrible.”
Jackson Monken’s offense looks more up-tempo. The Ravens have had heavy possession in recent seasons and it has its benefits, but with a quarterback like Jackson, maybe they could put more pressure on defenses.
“The collegiate part, the collegiate system has something. But it’s definitely faster,” Alciati acknowledged. “It’s great for me. It’s something new.”
It’s hard to say how much of a difference Jackson’s presence in May training will make in the season that begins in September. Head coach John Harbaugh said he has no problem with tight end Mark Andrews and wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. being acquired recently, but he clearly prefers to have as many players as possible at Owings Mills.
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“I think it’s important. I’m the coach,” said Harbaugh. “I want all the players here to always do everything they can. Now is it necessarily the best? You don’t know. Everyone has their own circumstances, and that’s okay.
Jackson thinks he can be a different kind of leader and maybe his decision to announce it early will help him.
“I’m going to try to be a leader,” Jackson said. “Parda said to me: ‘you start talking more'”.
Rookie receiver Zay Flores was in practice, along with teammate Rashad Bateman, who is returning from a foot injury that limited him to six games last season.
