Lamar Jackson
Getty
Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson after a December 7, 2025 game.
The Baltimore Ravens are built around quarterback Lamar Jackson. While he wants to keep elements of the team construct consistent, head coach Jesse Minter wants an alteration. While speaking to Rich Eisen, the rookie head coach discussed what he envisions for the veteran.
“I don’t know that he needs to run more. I actually think there are times where he can run less if you build an offense that takes advantage of the under center, the downhill run game.”
Jackson averages 158 carries per season, which appears like more than what it really is. However, his six yards per carry makes his total yardage more impactful. Minter wants to get the run game to take a little of the heat off the two-time MVP. Derrick Henry, despite playing into his 30s, seems just as productive as ever. Plus, if the Ravens add a backup that provides a similar element, Jackson’s threat to the defense increases, and defenses will need to take heed.
“Now that opens up a lot of boots and play actions. … I think there’s high-leverage moments where the quarterback’s willing to do what he needs to do to win the game.”
The bootleg is a play that defenses facing Jackson do not want to see coming. With the threat of his speed, the defenders in the short to immediate range will need to fight the urge to barrel towards Jackson, which is their natural impulse. If they do, the receiver springs free for sizable gains. On top of that, expanding the pocket to throw will help minimize one of Jackson’s biggest criticisms.
Lamar Jackson
GettyQuarterback Lamar Jackson hands the ball to Derrick Henry during a December 21, 2025 game.
Jackson’s Overall Health Matters Most to Baltimore Success
“This is a franchise player. There’s a health element and a protection element that needs to be in place to where he’s not taking some of the hits he doesn’t need to.”
Like every starting quarterback, Jackson holds the key to the Ravens’ success. His health sits at the top of the list of what Baltimore believes will lead them to victories. Through his career, Jackson has missed 16 games, pretty much an entire season. Reduced running should lead to fewer injuries.
Additionally, that also depends on the offensive line not just doing their job but excelling in both run and pass situations. According to Pro Football Focus, the Ravens ranked 25th in run blocking and 17th in pass protection. Those numbers do not lend a belief in any sort of improvement. With free agency and the draft, they could use their resources to shore up those areas.
Lamar Jackson
GettyQuarterback Lamar Jackson during a December 14, 2025 game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Faith in Doyle’s Offense Could Pay Dividends
While offensive coordinator Declan Doyle receives his first opportunity to call plays, you’d expect him to implement aspects of the Chicago Bears offense. For example, quarterback Caleb Williams only ran the ball 77 times. While Jackson may not reduce his carry rate that low, the idea of “less is more” could factor in.
Next, the Bears boasted four wideouts averaging at least 13.5 yards per catch. This approach will stress defenses. Doyle also stated that he wants to pursue the big plays. While Jackson can break long runs, the team will depend on his throws to move the ball.
Minter appears to want Jackson to continue to run the offense. Regardless of whatever contract situation exists between the quarterback and management, the head coach knows how he wants to lead the offense.