"That guy's not coming back": Lamar Jackson's Ravens future grows more uncertain after former NFL scout's bold claim
Lamar Jackson remains one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the NFL, but there’s been an increasing debate of late about whether the Baltimore Ravens star remains the explosive runner who revolutionized the position early in his career. With Jackson heading into the 2026 season, talk about his e
By Barsha Dutta
Lamar Jackson remains one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the NFL, but there’s been an increasing debate of late about whether the Baltimore Ravens star remains the explosive runner who revolutionized the position early in his career.
With Jackson heading into the 2026 season, talk about his evolving game is closely tied to his future in Baltimore.The conversation gained momentum after former NFL scout John Middlekauff suggested that Jackson's athletic profile has changed over the years.
While he believes the quarterback remains among the league's fastest players, he also argued that Baltimore now needs a different version of its franchise cornerstone.Lamar Jackson's athletic evolution draws mixed opinionsSpeaking on 3 and Out, Middlekauff reflected on how Jackson's body and playing style have changed since entering the NFL.“I don’t really hear anyone talking about how there was a year Lamar Jackson built up his way.
Do you think it might be something he should think about doing again? I think the guy that we saw early on in his career, 60-yard touchdown, double 360s in the open field; it was like Michael Vick on steroids.
It was incredible.
That guy’s not coming back.“Now, whatever he is now is still faster than basically everyone in the league.
I think he’s got to find a happy medium of how to stay healthy, what the right body type is for him to feel comfortable, what’s good on his muscles.
I think the key to them finding the perfect blend of offense for him, whatever that may be."“Remember, early on it was like, Greg Roman kinda doing like the Kaepernick thing, and then he was a much better passer than that.
It just got expanded, expanded, expanded.
He won MVPs with it.
I’m fascinated to see what they’re going to look like this year.”Jackson's early seasons were defined by explosive runs that routinely left defenders behind.
His 2019 MVP campaign featured several unforgettable highlights, including a remarkable touchdown against the Seattle Seahawks that showcased the speed and creativity that made him one of football's most exciting players.In recent seasons, however, Baltimore has gradually asked him to rely more on his arm while reducing the physical toll created by constant rushing attempts.Lamar Jackson's contract remains a major Ravens storylineJackson's statistical profile reflects that shift.
While he remains an effective dual-threat quarterback, his rushing production has declined over the past two seasons as injuries to his hamstring, ankle, knee and toe limited his mobility.
At the same time, he has continued developing into a more polished passer, giving the Ravens greater flexibility on offense.His contract situation also remains under close watch.Jackson still has two years remaining on his current deal, with roughly $104 million left on the contract.
Earlier this offseason, Baltimore created significant salary cap space by converting a large portion of his base salary into a signing bonus.ESPN's Bill Barnwell has suggested that any future extension would likely require the Ravens to guarantee the $52 million owed in 2027 while also committing more than $100 million in future guarantees beyond that.The financial commitment would be enormous.
Even so, Baltimore's decision will likely depend less on whether Jackson can still outrun defenders and more on whether the franchise believes his continued growth as a passer can keep the Ravens among the AFC's elite for years to come.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates.
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