Ravens' Lamar Jackson responds to criticism over missing OTAs
Baltimore Ravens star quarterback Lamar Jackson has been absent from the club's voluntary organized team activities and is on track to play later this coming season on the fifth-year option attached to his rookie contract. Ravens head coach John Harbaugh told reporters earlier this week that Jackson would eventually "speak for himself" about his decision, and the 2019 NFL Most Valuable Player did just that on Friday.
Former quarterback and current NBC Sports personality Chris Simms criticized Jackson and pointed out that seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady "wouldn't be missing OTAs in year four of his career" during an on-air appearance:
Jackson responded and once again suggested he'll attend the Ravens' mandatory minicamp scheduled for June 14 through June 16:
Ravens tight end Mark Andrews made it clear on Wednesday that Jackson was working hard during his time away from the club.
"He's extremely motivated and extremely hungry," Andrews said at that time. "So there's no worries over there. I know what he's doing and we're all working and doing our job here and getting ready for him. We'll be ready to go and I'm confident that he's going to be ready and show everybody what he's got and the type of hunger he has right now."
Meanwhile, Ravens president Sashi Brown reminded everyone on Thursday that "voluntary does mean voluntary" and also remarked that he's not bothered about the situation.
"Lamar’s been out working this offseason . . . so no, I don’t think any reason for alarm," Brown added. "He’s been very vocal in terms of his support and desire to be in Baltimore. We’re pleased that’s he’s out there working and not going to make a big deal out of this."
More must-reads: