Baltimore Ravens
· 2026-06-24
Lamar Jackson, the Baltimore Ravens' quarterback, is defended by NFL great Cris Carter, who says coaching is to blame for the team's struggles.
Cris Carter, a former eight-time Pro Bowl wide receiver, pushed back on a statement that described Jackson as “the most overrated quarterback in NFL history.”
The Baltimore Ravens' former offensive coordinator, Todd Monken, and head coach, John Harbaugh, were let go, but Carter says Jackson didn't get them fired.
Carter acknowledged that Jackson didn't have a good relationship with Monken, but he said that was Monken's fault, not Jackson's.
Jackson played some of his best football when Monken was calling the plays, and Monken has rejected the idea that there was friction between Jackson and Harbaugh.
The Ravens need a fresh start, and Jackson must respond well to new coaches Jesse Minter and Declan Doyle to avoid regression and defy critics.
Jackson is getting used to being the brunt of criticism, but he can avoid it by winning a Super Bowl.
The only way that will happen is if the 29-year-old quarterback masters the new play-caller's scheme and becomes a vocal leader.
Carter pointed out that Jackson didn't tell Zay Flowers to fumble the ball going into the end zone, and he didn't make Mark Andrews drop a pass in the playoffs.
These mistakes can't be pinned directly on Jackson, but he must fix other issues under the new coaching regime.
The Ravens expect Jackson to mature as a leader and stay in command during pressure situations in playoff football.
Fortunately, a decorated veteran has noticed a change in Jackson's mindset entering a crucial season.
Jackson is a four-time Pro Bowler and three-time first-team All-Pro, and the Ravens demand a consistent standard of excellence from him.