Ravens Questioned Over Lamar Jackson's Support System

Concerns raised about Baltimore's offseason moves and ability to maximize their star QB's prime years.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 12:38pm

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The Baltimore Ravens and star quarterback Lamar Jackson have yet to reach a Super Bowl together, despite Jackson's two MVP awards. Some analysts are questioning whether the Ravens have done enough this offseason to surround Jackson with the necessary supporting cast to win a championship, citing concerns about the team's offensive line, skill position players, and defensive pass rush.

Why it matters

As one of the league's most dynamic young quarterbacks, there is pressure on the Ravens to capitalize on Lamar Jackson's prime years and build a roster capable of winning a Super Bowl. Questions about the team's offseason moves and long-term outlook at key positions could impact their ability to maximize Jackson's talent and take the next step as a franchise.

The details

The Athletic's Jordan Rodrigue highlighted the Ravens' decision to rescind a trade for star pass rusher Maxx Crosby as a missed opportunity to significantly upgrade their defense. While they signed Trey Hendrickson, there are questions about the long-term outlook of the team's pass rush due to injuries and age. Rodrigue also expressed concerns about the team's skill position players, offensive line, and running back depth around Jackson.

  • The 2025 season was a rough one for Lamar Jackson, who dealt with injuries.
  • The Ravens have not reached a Super Bowl with Lamar Jackson as their starting quarterback.

The players

Lamar Jackson

A two-time NFL MVP quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens.

Eric DeCosta

The general manager of the Baltimore Ravens.

Maxx Crosby

A star pass rusher who the Ravens initially agreed to trade for but then rescinded the deal.

Trey Hendrickson

A pass rusher the Ravens signed in free agency.

Rashod Bateman

The Ravens' current WR2 who some fans wanted to see upgraded this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“While the league at large viewed the initial trade agreement for Maxx Crosby as an overpay, I saw it as a statement from Eric DeCosta and Co. that these were not going to be the 'just good enough' Ravens anymore. Then they rescinded the trade and signed a good pass rusher in Trey Hendrickson, but injuries and age are real questions there.”

— Jordan Rodrigue, Reporter (The Athletic)

What’s next

The Ravens will look to address any remaining roster needs through free agency and the upcoming NFL Draft as they aim to build a championship-caliber team around Lamar Jackson.

The takeaway

The Ravens' ability to maximize Lamar Jackson's prime years and win a Super Bowl will hinge on their success in surrounding the star quarterback with the necessary supporting cast on both sides of the ball. Questions remain about the team's offseason moves and long-term outlook at key positions, putting pressure on the front office to make the right decisions to elevate the roster.