Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images

What Lamar Jackson mistake the next Ravens head coach needs to avoid, reveals ex-NFL veteran

Originally posted on HITC | By Aikansh Chaudhary | Last updated Jan 15, 2026 8:47 AM ET

Bernard Pollard believes the Baltimore Ravens must take a smarter approach with Lamar Jackson under their next head coach, saying the star quarterback’s long-term success depends on discipline, protection, and better offensive planning.

The former Super Bowl winner, who helped the Ravens capture the 2013 title, said the team’s next leader cannot repeat the same mistakes made in recent seasons.

With Jackson in his prime and Baltimore once again searching for postseason consistency, Pollard stressed that the franchise’s future depends on building a system that allows its quarterback to thrive without burning out.

Pollard’s comments come at a time when the Ravens face a defining decision, with the next head coach expected to inherit a roster ready to compete but one that needs tactical refinement around its biggest star.

Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images

Bernard Pollard calls for better protection of Lamar Jackson

Speaking to PokerScout, Pollard said: “Lamar is the type of guy where, if he’s the hero all year long for 17 games, then in the playoffs he’s used up all that hero power. It’s faded when he’s gotten to the playoffs.

He added: “I think they need to bring someone in who will structure their offensive line to protect and keep Lamar in the pocket.

“He’s got to make those throws, because as he gets later in his career, those legs aren’t going to continue to out-run people.”

Pollard believes Baltimore’s offense must be reshaped to extend Jackson’s career. He said the next coach should design a scheme that encourages more pocket passing and uses the quarterback’s running ability more selectively.

In his view, that balance will help Jackson remain efficient, fresh, and dangerous throughout an entire season.

The message is one of adjustment, not limitation. Pollard said that as Jackson gets older, the Ravens must transition from relying on his legs to trusting his arm, which will require an improved offensive line and smarter game planning.

Next Baltimore Ravens coach must protect Lamar Jackson’s longevity

Pollard said the next Ravens head coach must view Jackson’s development as a long-term project rather than a short-term fix.

The key, he explained, is to build a team that keeps its quarterback upright and focused on distributing the ball instead of taking unnecessary hits.

He added that Jackson has already proven he can carry a team, but Baltimore needs to stop asking him to do it every week.

The right coach, Pollard argued, will help Jackson evolve into a more complete quarterback who wins through precision and control, not just athleticism.

For Baltimore, that evolution may determine how far they can go in the years ahead. Pollard’s advice was clear, the Ravens must find a leader who can blend strategy, structure, and protection to ensure Jackson’s talent translates into long-term success.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: