Lamar Jackson has notably slimmed down, stirring up significant interest during this week’s OTAs with his leaner physique aimed at increasing agility.
“I don’t really know how many pounds I lost, I’m like 2-something right now, but I’ll just say it was important enough I can be able to move around a little bit extra, that’s all,” Jackson commented.
It’s common for athletes to claim they’re in peak condition during the offseason, but Jackson appears to be returning to his earlier, more agile form.
Despite being evasive about his exact weight on Wednesday, he had earlier informed Complex Sports that he is down to 205 pounds from 215 last season and 230 in 2022.
Jackson had increased his weight to 230 after taking a career-high 38 sacks in 2021, as reported by ESPN. His objective was to dip below that weight to boost his mobility. “Just so I can be more agile and be able to move more, that’s all,” he explained about his weight loss this Wednesday.
A lighter Jackson could spell trouble for opposing defenses. The reigning league MVP is on track to becoming the greatest rushing quarterback in NFL history, with 5,258 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns over six seasons, including 821 yards and five touchdowns last season.
Last season, Jackson’s efforts helped propel Baltimore to the top seed in the AFC. The Ravens made it to the AFC Championship game in January but were defeated at home by the Chiefs, whom they will meet again on the road as the 2024 season opens.
The dynamic of a slimmer Jackson combined with new powerhouse running back Derrick Henry could prove formidable for their adversaries.
“Heck yeah, I feel great. I feel great to be back out here with my guys, man,” Jackson said on Wednesday. “Grinding, getting better. I feel great.”
Jackson also dismissed any notion that his lighter weight might compromise his abilities as a pocket passer. “We sacrifice our body each and every game, practices,” he stated. “I believe it really doesn’t matter about the weight.”
Ravens coach Jim Harbaugh expressed no concerns about Jackson’s weight loss. “He’s a pro, he knows what he’s doing,” Harbaugh reassured. “I’m sure if it got crazy, if he came in here 250 pounds I might be a little concerned, or if he came in here 150 pounds I’d probably be a little concerned, but he’s going to be in there, where he needs to be, and he’s going to be in great shape and ready to go.”
