Lamar Jackson: Mid-game cramps 'probably' connected to COVID-19

Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson said that his mid-game cramps against the Cleveland Browns were most likely connected to COVID-19, as the reigning MVP tested positive in late November.

In the fourth quarter of Monday night's game against Baltimore and Cleveland, Jackson jogged to the locker room without explanation before returning to the game in time to help Baltimore keep its playoff hopes alive with 47-42 win. While some wondered if Jackson had pulled a Paul Pierce, the third-year quarterback said after the game that his trip to the locker room was due to cramping. 

When asked if the cramps may be a result of having coronavirus last month, Jackson said that it was likely the cause.

"Probably. Probably because of the body heat and we’re running in the cold," Jackson told reporters. "It was so cold out there. That probably had an effect on that as well. I can’t call it." 

This is not the first time that a quarterback's previous COVID-19 diagnosis has been connected to their struggles on the field. Many have wondered if Cam Newton was dealing with the lingering effects when he struggled in his return from being diagnosed earlier in the season. Similarly, Newton seemed to acknowledge that it could have played a role but would not confirm the connection outright.

If the Ravens are going to make the playoffs, they will need Jackson to be at top form, as they currently are ranked ninth in the AFC standings. Baltimore plays the Jacksonville Jaguars this Sunday.