Lamar Jackson: 'Cramping' caused him to head to locker room

What really caused Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson to make a dash to the locker during Monday night's game? Scott Galvin-USA TODAY Sports

Lamar Jackson says 'cramping' caused him to head to locker room: 'I didn't pull a Paul Pierce'

By Blake Harper | Last updated 12/15/20

Monday night's game between the Baltimore Ravens and Cleveland Browns had no shortage of drama, and the most mysterious and intriguing moment came in the fourth quarter, when Ravens quarterback Lamar 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.

Video of Jackson heading to the locker room caused some to wonder if the reigning MVP needed to take a bathroom break or if he had not gotten to the bathroom in time. But Jackson insists he just needed to deal with some cramps and that his bowels had nothing to do with his trip to the locker room.

"I didn't pull a Paul Pierce," Jackson said after the game. "I was cramping."

"I didn't pull a Paul Pierce. I was cramping." @Lj_era8

pic.twitter.com/8rvfAY3BFW
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) December 15, 2020

Jackson is referring to the infamous incident during Game 1 of the 2008 NBA Finals, where Pierce had to be escorted off the court in a wheelchair. Initially, Pierce tried to play it off like he had been injured but almost a decade later, the Celtics' legend finally admitted that he had pooped his pants. And like Jackson, Pierce was able to return to the game.

During Jackson's absence, backup Trace McSorley filled in, but the Ravens quickly went three-and-out and gave the ball back to the Browns, who then delivered a lengthy touchdown drive to take the lead. McSorley ended up hurting his knee, but fortunately for the Ravens, Jackson returned and was able to put his team back on top.

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