Lamar Jackson won unanimous NFL MVP in 2019 after teams questioned if he should switch to running back — silencing critics with record-breaking dual-threat dominance.
The MVP Season
2019 (age 23):
- 3,127 passing yards, 36 passing TDs
- 1,206 rushing yards (QB record), 7 rushing TDs
- Led Ravens to 14-2 record (best in NFL)
- Unanimous MVP (first since 2013 Peyton Manning)
First QB ever with 3,000+ pass yards and 1,000+ rush yards in single season. Revolutionized quarterback position with designed runs, read-options, speed.
”Not Bad for a Running Back”
2018 draft: Louisville QB drafted 32nd overall (last pick of Round 1). Analysts suggested he switch to wide receiver or running back. Doubted his passing ability.
November 25, 2019: Ravens beat Rams 45-6. Lamar threw 5 TDs in 13 minutes. Post-game interview (Jamie Erdahl): “How do you feel?”
Lamar: “Not bad for a running back.”
Mic drop. Meme born. Vindication complete.
Playoff Struggles
2019 playoffs: Ravens lost to Titans 28-12 (Divisional Round). Lamar’s playoff record became criticism. Lost first playoff game four years straight (2018-2021).
2023: Finally won playoff game (beat Texans). Still seeking Super Bowl.
Dual-Threat Revolution
Lamar changed QB evaluation. Speed, elusiveness, running threat became valuable assets. Kyler Murray, Jalen Hurts, Josh Allen benefited from Lamar’s blueprint.
Two-time MVP (2019, 2023). Held out for guaranteed contract (2023, got $185M fully guaranteed — NFL record for QB at time).
Legacy
Proved doubters wrong. Made “running QB” viable at highest level. Changed NFL offensive philosophy. From questioned draft pick to unanimous MVP.
Not bad for a running back.
Source: NFL.com