Expert says Lamar Jackson is the biggest reason Ravens’ Super Bowl window remains open
The Ravens failed in their quest for the franchise’s third Lombardi Trophy, raising questions about whether their Super Bowl window had closed.
Sports Illustrated’s Gilberto Manzano addressed the subject in his “Fact or Fiction” column. While acknowledging it’s a legitimate question, he called the suggestion that the Ravens missed their window “fiction.”
“The short answer is no, the Ravens did not miss their Super Bowl window because they have Lamar Jackson, who continues to improve and just turned 28,” Manzano wrote. “It’s crazy to think a two-time MVP can improve, but he’s in contention to win the honor for a third time thanks to his career season as a passer, becoming the first player in the NFL history to record at least 4,000 passing yards and 900 rushing yards.
“As long as Jackson is in his prime, the Ravens will always have the Super Bowl window ajar, at least slightly open.”
Manzano’s point about Jackson is well-founded, but the All-Pro quarterback isn’t the only reason the Ravens remain legitimate Super Bowl contenders.
The Ravens have a roster filled with veteran players in their prime and young, emerging players. They also have an exceptional coaching staff led by John Harbaugh and a front office led by general manager Eric DeCosta, considered one of the best in professional sports.
One of the main takeaways from the Ravens’ end-of-season press conference yesterday is that the organization plans to bring back the core of the team to compete in the Super Bowl again.
