John Harbaugh, the head coach of the Baltimore Ravens, has taken to proudly boasting about his relationship with quarterback Lamar Jackson. He describes their connection as an “A-plus.” This announcement follows weeks of rumor and speculation about a possible fracture between the two, which Harbaugh has publicly and adamantly denied. Jackson’s status for their next game against the Green Bay Packers is up in the air with a back contusion.
Over the last 10 seasons, Harbaugh and Jackson have developed one of the most fruitful coach-quarterback collaborations in football. Together, they have won four AFC North championships and made the playoffs six times in eight campaigns. During their time together, the Ravens have claimed two No. 1 seeds in the AFC. Besides Jackson’s ascent since becoming the starting passer in 2018, the franchise has claimed three postseason victories under his command. Still, they’ve never made it to a Super Bowl, and they’ve never progressed beyond the AFC Championship Game.
On the Friday morning prior, Harbaugh had called Jackson. Jackson had already missed practice on Wednesday with his ankle injury. However, after some initial worries about Jackson’s health, Harbaugh is most excited by the prospect of working with him.
“I don’t need anybody speaking for me,” Harbaugh stated regarding the rumors of discord.
He added, “So, I don’t know where that’s coming from,” emphasizing his belief that he has not observed any behavior from Jackson that would suggest a rift.
Should Jackson not be able to go on Saturday, Tyler Huntley will start in his place. Huntley had already led the team to an impressive win against the Chicago Bears earlier this season.
The stakes are just as high for the Ravens, who would be out of the playoff picture with a loss at home to Green Bay. The pressure only intensifies as the team deals with not only these injury issues but outside narratives that speculate on their turbulent internal relationship.
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