OWINGS MILLS — Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is feeling good as the team gets closer to the NFL’s season opener against the Kansas City Chiefs on September 5th.
Jackson entered training camp 10 pounds lighter and will play the season around 205 pounds. He’s noticed the difference with practicing at a lighter weight.
“I’ve got a lot more energy. I’m not fatigued as much,” Jackson said. “If I’m running 30 yards down the field – I can come back and just be like me, like a robot, even though I’m not a robot. So, yes, I’m feeling good. I just feel better, a lot better.
“I just have to outrun my opponent, and I’m just cruising after that. I’m not really trying to do a 100-meter dash. I just [want to] beat whoever’s chasing me. That’s all.”
The Ravens’ offense is still a work in progress but the addition of Derrick Henry will boost a running attack that was already ranked No. 1 in the NFL last season. Jackson is also more comfortable with the playbook under second-year offensive coordinator Todd Monken.
“Just me being a part of this system; going into my second season [and] having a whole offseason, and just building with our guys [some] chemistry, and listening to Coach [Todd Monken] and seeing what his vision is for the offense,” Jackson said. “I feel like this year, it’ll be different this go around.”
Jackson has not played in the first two preseason games and won’t play Saturday against the Green Bay Packers. He is looking forward to competing against Green Bay’s defense in a joint practice being held Thursday.
Jackson also is looking forward to the opener against the Chiefs, which will be one of the most highly anticipated games of the 2024 regular season. The game will be a measure of where the Ravens stand as an offense.
“You know [there’s] always things to work on, but I’m definitely ready for the season,” Jackson said. “It’s been a great offseason for us, and [I’m] tired of going against my guys. [I’m] looking forward to September 5th.”
