The spotlight at Thursday night’s NFL Honors ceremony shined on Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson as he clinched his second NFL MVP.
Only 27, Jackson now stands as the youngest two-time MVP winner since the league’s merger, edging out seasoned competitor Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs by a mere nine months.
Securing a staggering 49 out of 50 first-place votes, Jackson fell just short of achieving unanimous selection, marking yet another milestone in his career. His domination echoed his previous feat in 2019, where he joined the ranks of Tom Brady as one of the few players to clinch all 50 first-place votes for MVP in a single season.
In his humble acceptance speech, Jackson extended his gratitude to the Baltimore Ravens organization for their unwavering support, acknowledging the collaborative effort that underpinned his success. He highlighted the pivotal role played by his offensive counterparts, emphasizing that individual accolades were a testament to collective teamwork.
The solitary first-place vote not cast in Jackson’s favor went to Josh Allen, the quarterback for the Buffalo Bills, who clinched fifth-place in the final tally.
While Jackson’s stellar performance during the regular season earned him the coveted MVP title, his journey has been marked by both triumphs and setbacks. Despite his undeniable talent, Jackson remains the sole multiple MVP winner in the Super Bowl era yet to secure a Super Bowl victory, a fact that underscores the unpredictability of the sport.
His MVP-worthy season was characterized by standout achievements, including career-high passing yards and completion rates. Furthermore, Jackson’s leadership proved instrumental in guiding the Ravens to the top spot in the league with a remarkable 13-4 record.
What sets Jackson apart is his ability to defy conventional norms. Despite ranking outside the top 10 in touchdown passes and passing yards, he emerged as a force to be reckoned with, showcasing his mettle against formidable opponents.
Reflecting on his remarkable journey, Jackson expressed gratitude for the opportunity to etch his name among the sport’s elite. However, his hunger for a Lombardi Trophy remains.
