QB Lamar Jackson back at practice, Ravens want him to run

Field Level Media|published: Wed 11th September, 16:07 2024

NFL: Baltimore Ravens at Kansas City Chiefs

Sep 5, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) runs the ball as Kansas City Chiefs safety Chamarri Conner (27) makes the tackle during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson said he wasn't injured but "took a day off" when he wasn't available for Monday's practice.

Jackson practiced Wednesday six days after the NFL season kickoff loss at Kansas City and said he wasn't feeling any worse for wear after carrying the ball 16 times against the Chiefs.

"Playing football," he said of his mindset delivering first contact to defenders in his path. "I'm just playing football. I'd rather hit you before you hit me."

Jackson might be less-equipped to protect himself this season because he intentionally dropped weight. He said he doesn't have a target weight, but trimmed pounds to get faster and improve as a runner.

Head coach John Harbaugh and Jackson both said they're ready to lean on running back Derrick Henry more often. Asked if his current pace as a runner seeking contact was sustainable, Jackson said, "I'm not trying to find out."

Harbaugh said he doesn't want Jackson to pull back as a runner.

"I'm comfortable with a physical football team across the board, whatever it takes in a given situation to try to find a way to make a play and win the game," Harbaugh said.

--Field Level Media