Lamar Jackson’s journey in the NFL has been nothing short of extraordinary. The electrifying quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens has redefined the quarterback position with his unique combination of arm strength, athleticism, and football IQ. He became the youngest player in history to win the NFL MVP award in 2019, and his style of play has had fans and analysts alike singing his praises. However, despite his incredible talent and accomplishments, Jackson’s quest for another MVP title has been somewhat controversial, particularly following his loss of the MVP award in the 2020 season. In recent months, Jackson’s teammates have begun to share their honest thoughts about this situation, revealing their frustrations, thoughts, and support for their star QB.
One of the most recent comments came from a key figure on the Ravens offense: wide receiver **Marquise “Hollywood” Brown**. In an interview following the Ravens’ 2021 season, Brown was candid about his thoughts on Lamar Jackson’s MVP loss, especially in the context of the 2020 campaign. Brown’s comments shed light on not just Jackson’s MVP chances but also on the team’s dynamics and the behind-the-scenes camaraderie that exists among the Ravens’ offensive players.
### Jackson’s 2019 MVP Year: A Historic Achievement
Before diving into the recent comments made by Brown, it’s essential to understand the historical significance of Lamar Jackson’s MVP win in 2019. Jackson’s stellar performance in the 2019 season marked a turning point in the NFL. He led the Ravens to a 14-2 record, throwing for 3,127 yards and 36 touchdowns while rushing for an astounding 1,206 yards and seven touchdowns. His dual-threat capabilities made him nearly unstoppable, and he was named the MVP of the league in a unanimous vote, the first quarterback to do so since Tom Brady in 2017.
His MVP season was a moment of personal and team triumph, and the Ravens saw Jackson as not only the face of the franchise but also the future of the NFL itself. His style of play – blending passing precision with a running ability rarely seen in a quarterback – became the blueprint for future quarterbacks who hoped to follow in his footsteps. In 2019, the NFL had a new star, and that star was Lamar Jackson.
### The 2020 MVP Race: A Tight Battle
When the 2020 season rolled around, expectations were high for Lamar Jackson to continue his dominance. However, things didn’t go quite as planned. Jackson started the season strong, but the Ravens faced numerous obstacles, including a midseason COVID-19 outbreak that forced them to cancel and reschedule games. Additionally, Baltimore’s offensive system, which had been so successful in 2019, began to show vulnerabilities. Opposing teams adjusted their defensive strategies, making it harder for Jackson to repeat his previous success.
While Jackson still had great individual moments, including several impressive performances late in the season, he faced stiff competition for the MVP award, particularly from Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers had a remarkable season, throwing for 48 touchdowns and only five interceptions. His play was both efficient and explosive, leading to another stellar year for the Packers, who finished with a 13-3 record. In the end, Rodgers won the MVP award, leaving Jackson, his teammates, and many of his fans disappointed.
### Hollywood Brown Speaks Out
Marquise Brown, one of Lamar Jackson’s top receiving targets, has always been one of his strongest advocates. Brown, a former first-round pick, has developed a strong chemistry with Jackson over their years together in Baltimore. As the team’s deep-threat receiver, Brown has had a front-row seat to Jackson’s incredible playmaking ability, both in the air and on the ground. His connection with Jackson has been a key element of the Ravens’ offensive success in recent seasons.
In an interview that garnered attention from fans and media alike, Brown opened up about Jackson’s MVP loss in 2020. He acknowledged that it was a tough pill to swallow, especially given how much Jackson meant to the team and how hard he worked that season. But more than just a simple acknowledgment of disappointment, Brown’s comments were a reflection of the wider sense of unfairness felt by Jackson’s supporters.
Brown said, “It’s kind of crazy how Lamar didn’t win MVP this year. You know, everyone knows how great he is and what he brings to the table. It’s frustrating, but I don’t want to get in trouble for speaking too much about it.” In this statement, Brown is both defending Jackson and hinting at the unspoken frustrations felt by the Ravens’ locker room. For Jackson’s teammates, the idea that a player of his caliber, who can completely change the game with his legs and arm, could be overlooked in favor of a more traditional, pocket-passing quarterback like Rodgers is an injustice.
Brown’s reluctance to “get in trouble” suggests that there are deeper sentiments among the Ravens’ players about the way Jackson has been treated in the MVP race. While the MVP is meant to be an individual honor, players like Brown understand that Jackson’s play extends beyond personal achievement—it’s about the team’s success and the unique attributes that make him a special quarterback. To his teammates, Jackson’s value is immeasurable, and his ability to elevate the Ravens’ offense is undeniable.
### The MVP Debate: A Deeper Issue
For many fans and analysts, the MVP conversation is often more complex than it appears on the surface. Traditional metrics, such as passing yards and touchdowns, still dominate the narrative around MVP candidates. Jackson, however, defies the traditional quarterback mold. His ability to rush for over 1,000 yards in a season and make defenders miss with ease gives him a dynamic that traditional quarterbacks like Rodgers simply cannot replicate. Yet, despite this unique ability, Jackson’s “traditional” passing numbers don’t always match up to the league’s top pocket passers.
This contrast in style has led to a recurring debate: Can a quarterback who primarily relies on his legs win the MVP in a league that traditionally values the passing game above all else? Despite Jackson’s extraordinary achievements, this question continues to hang over his MVP candidacy. The NFL may still be wrestling with how to fairly value a player who doesn’t fit the typical mold of an MVP winner.
### Support From Teammates and Fans
While Jackson’s MVP snub may have been a point of frustration, it has also shown the tremendous support that Jackson has from his teammates. Marquise Brown, in particular, has always expressed how much he believes in Jackson’s greatness. Brown’s loyalty to Jackson is not unique; other members of the Ravens, such as running back **J.K. Dobbins** and defensive lineman **Calais Campbell**, have voiced their belief in Jackson’s ability and leadership.
Fans have also rallied behind Jackson, and his popularity has only grown stronger despite not winning a second MVP. The Ravens fanbase understands the unique qualities he brings to the game and remains unwavering in its support. Jackson may not have a second MVP trophy on his shelf, but his legacy and impact on the NFL are undeniable.
### Conclusion: Lamar Jackson’s Journey Continues
As Lamar Jackson continues to evolve as a quarterback, it’s clear that his story is far from over. Whether or not he wins another MVP is secondary to the bigger picture: Jackson has changed the game and will continue to be one of the most exciting and unpredictable quarterbacks to watch in the NFL. Marquise “Hollywood” Brown’s candid comments are a reminder of how much Jackson means to the Ravens and how his teammates view him not just as a quarterback but as a true game-changer.
Jackson’s MVP loss may sting, but for those who know him best, it’s clear that his impact is felt beyond awards and accolades. His journey is one of resilience, greatness, and, ultimately, an unwavering belief in his ability to lead the Ravens to success. Fans and teammates alike are ready for what’s next, with the hope that Jackson’s next MVP title might just be around the corner.
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