Is Lamar Jackson Destined to Face the Same Fate as Cam Newton?
The National Football League (NFL) has seen its share of star quarterbacks with promising careers fleeting due to injuries. Cam Newton, a former MVP, is a prime example. Many are wondering if Lamar Jackson, with his unique dual-threat abilities, will experience the same fate due to his frequent running. Is it possible, and if so, why?
Historical Context: How Rules Impact NFL Quarterbacks
Let's examine why Cam Newton's career was derailed. Cam plays a similar role to other mobile quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson, often dashing laterally to avoid sacks and big plays. However, compared to the likes of Tom Brady, who is a pure pocket passer, the NFL has evolved in a way that prioritizes defensive safety for mobile quarterbacks.
Tom Brady and Protection Changes
Tom Brady, in his 22nd year as a starter, has benefited from safer playing conditions. The league has implemented new rules and measures to protect quarterbacks, such as the no-blocking zone below the waist. However, one critical aspect remains unchangedquarterbacks who run the ball face more exposure. For instance, Brady had only 165 rushing yards and 2 rushing touchdowns through 2021, showcasing how different the modern game is for pure pocket passers.
Investigation into Lamar Jackson's Injuries vs. Cam Newton's
On the other hand, Lamar Jackson's version of durability is far from guaranteed. His frequent running and open-field dinks and dunks can lead to inadvertent hits and tackles. It is essential to understand the mechanics of his injuries over his career. In 2021, Lamar Jackson sustained 134 rushing yards and 5 rushing touchdowns, which brings us to the core of the issue: why do dual-threat quarterbacks often get injured?
Andrew Luck, another MVP talent, did not run the ball frequently and still had a tumultuous career marked by injury. Therefore, using a single data point (Cam Newton) to predict Lamar Jackson's future lacks sufficient context. In any case, the primary reason quarterbacks get injured is due to being hit while running the ball, which exposes them to a higher risk of concussions, significant fractures, and other serious injuries.
Protective Measures and Longevity
One of the most crucial factors in a quarterback's longevity is the quality of blocking and protection provided by their offensive line. Over the years, Cam Newton's offensive line has seen mixed performance. While there were a few standout players like Jordan Gross (2011–2013), the overall quality of his offensive line hasn't been elite.
For Lamar Jackson, his longevity hinges on his offensive line and tight ends, which are vital for his safety and effectiveness. The Baltimore Ravens have recognized this, paying for top-tier offensive linemen like Ronnie Stanley and maintaining a strong tight end room. These factors are critical not just for his success but also for his long-term health.
Protecting Lamar Jackson is more complex, and any deviation from top-tier protection could significantly jeopardize his career. If his offensive line falters, it could lead to more frequent runs towards the sideline, exposing him to more tackles.
A Race-Based Misconception
Several contributors to these discussions often fall into a race-based misconception. The idea that black quarterbacks are somehow less capable or more prone to injury due to their race is both unethical and unsupported by factual evidence.
In reality, the root cause of injuries for dual-threat quarterbacks is not their race but their constant engagement in open-field running. This behavior exposes them to more physical risk, regardless of their skin color. For example, Josh Allen, a dual-threat quarterback, sustained more sacks than Lamar Jackson in 2021 alone, highlighting that being in the pocket is not inherently safer.
Moreover, the notion that referees have shown partiality or blindness to hits on Lamar Jackson is baseless. Specific instances can be scrutinized, but in general, hitting a quarterback in the pocket is a legitimate play, and tardy calls can indeed affect the game. However, it's important to evaluate the broader context rather than jumping to racial conclusions.
In conclusion, while Lamar Jackson's running style does increase his exposure to the risk of injury, this is not a new phenomenon. The NFL has evolved to protect quarterbacks, yet running quarterbacks still face unique dangers. Cam Newton's career serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges that come with this type of playmaking. Whether Lamar Jackson faces the same fate ultimately depends on the quality of his protection and his ability to avoid high-risk plays.
Keywords: Lamar Jackson, Cam Newton, NFL Injuries