Why Lamar Jackson was absent for Ravens' OTAs on Tuesday

Lamar Jackson made headlines on Tuesday, but not for a reason Baltimore Ravens fans will like. 

According to Pro Football Talk’s Myles Simmons, the two-time MVP quarterback wasn’t an active participant in the Ravens’ OTAs.

“While Lamar Jackson has been in attendance for parts of Baltimore’s offseason program, he is not on the field on Tuesday,’ Simmons reported. “Via multiple reporters on the scene, Jackson is not attending the Ravens’ second OTA practice, which is the first open to the media.”

It’s reasonable to assume many Baltimore supporters feel it’s appropriate to hit the panic button after Simmons’ report. After all, missing OTAs can sometimes signal a disconnect between a player and an organization. Head coach Jesse Minter doesn’t believe that’s the case with Jackson and the Ravens, though, as the 43-year-old hinted that the organization’s fan base has nothing to worry about going forward.

“Lamar’s been one of our leaders of the offseason program, and he had a couple things going on yesterday and today, and I do expect him to be back soon,” Minter said while speaking to reporters. “We’ve had some great conversations. I know when he’s going to be back and again, I’ll probably leave those between me and Lamar.” 

Essentially, all appears to be well in Baltimore, which is a good sign for an AFC North club hoping to return to the postseason in 2026-27 and make a commanding statement. Jackson is the heart and soul of the Ravens’ organization, making it pivotal to ensure he's on good terms with the two Super Bowl champions heading into the next stage of the offseason. 

It’ll be interesting to see how Jackson and the Ravens fare in Minter’s first year as Baltimore’s head coach.

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