Can We Finally Criticize Lamar Jackson?
No quarterback in today’s social media landscape has received more hype and protection than the Ravens’ Lamar Jackson. For nearly five seasons, he has been shielded from even mild criticism, with many analysts showcasing their fan loyalty rather than objectively evaluating his performance.
To give some context, NFL executive Bill Polian suggested almost a decade ago that Jackson should switch positions from quarterback to wide receiver before the 2018 draft. This comment quickly sparked accusations of racism against Jackson, positioning him as a cultural icon. Since then, much of the media seems to have framed him as a symbol of resistance against historical prejudices facing Black quarterbacks.
Supporters of this narrative have often distinguished Jackson from other Black quarterbacks. Jemele Hill, a former television host, noted that Jackson isn’t sufficiently appreciated outside the Black community, likening him to Allen Iverson in terms of cultural influence and style.
While it’s undeniable that Lamar Jackson is an exceptional quarterback, capable of being considered among the top five in the league, he has formed an almost idolized connection with the media that isn’t afforded to his peers. Even commentators who typically align with a more critical perspective have noted this discrepancy in coverage.
As the current season begins, Jackson is viewed as a top MVP candidate, with the Ravens seen as Super Bowl contenders. However, four weeks in, the team holds a disappointing 1-3 record after a significant loss to the Chiefs. Although the defense has struggled, the offense, led by Jackson, has been underperforming, with several high-stakes games highlighting missed opportunities.
The media’s reluctance to critique Jackson is evident, as demonstrated in a recent game where he seemingly opted out due to a “hamstring issue,” without clear evidence of an injury. If other quarterbacks had made similar choices under comparable circumstances, they would likely face intense scrutiny. Ultimately, while Jackson is undeniably talented, he has often fallen short in crucial moments. It’s time to reconsider the narrative that surrounds him—being a Black quarterback or possessing “swag” shouldn’t exempt him from fair criticism.
