Lamar Jackson indicated that his recent “like” of an image of him in a Miami Dolphins jersey was done as a joke to get back at his critics.
Jackson explained during a recent podcast appearance that he is not looking to leave the Baltimore Ravens before stating his reasoning for the “like” on social media.
On the @GoJoShow, Lamar Jackson basically says he liked a tweet of himself in a Dolphins jersey as a joke for everyone who thinks he wants out of Baltimore. pic.twitter.com/kdc6F54CYX
— Jonas Shaffer (@jonas_shaffer) September 8, 2022
“Now I’m seeing things like, ‘Oh, he wants out,’ because I’m liking stuff,” Jackson said. “Yeah, because I see y’all keep engaging in that way. … I’m gonna play back.”
Jackson is trying to negotiate a contract extension with the Ravens, but he recently set a deadline of Friday for that to happen.
Lamar Jackson told reporters today that his deadline to get a contract extension done with the Ravens is Friday.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 7, 2022
The Ravens open up the season on the road on Sunday against the New York Jets, with Jackson remaining an integral part of the Ravens’ lineup at quarterback.
Jackson was chosen by the Ravens with the 32nd overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft after a sparkling career at the University of Louisville. That tenure included winning the Heisman Trophy in 2016.
Upon joining the Ravens, Jackson made a positive impression during his rookie campaign by starting seven games and winning six of those contests.
Throwing away any fears of a sophomore jinx, Jackson exploded during his second season and was rewarded by being named the NFL’s Most Valuable Player.
Eye-popping numbers
During his monster 2019 season, Jackson was an all-around asset. He threw for 3,127 yards and a league-high 36 touchdowns. In addition, he rushed for 1,206 yards and seven touchdowns while gaining a league-high 6.9 yards per carry.
Another solid season in 2020 for Jackson was marred somewhat by COVID-19 concerns, which forced him to sit out a key game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, he still managed to throw for 2,757 yards and rush for 1,005 yards.
Jackson’s 2021 season ended when he sustained a bone bruise on his ankle that kept him sidelined for the Ravens’ last four games. His absence played a part in the Ravens losing all four of those clashes.
Exactly how much Jackson is asking for in his new deal is unknown. However, given his past production and the massive deals that have recently been given to his fellow signal-callers, it’s surely in the triple figures.
Dolphins fans won’t have to wait long to see Jackson in action, with the team set to face the Ravens in Baltimore on Sept. 18.
