The Baltimore Ravens coaching shake-up impacts Lamar Jackson perhaps more than any other player. It was well-documented that Lamar wasn't on great terms with the previous coaching staff, specifically offensive coordinator Todd Monken, as the two reportedly had "chemistry issues."Â
The arrival of Jesse Minter and Declan Doyle was a much-needed change. It's especially vital for Lamar and Doyle to develop a strong connection, especially after the Monken-Jackson pairing wasn't ideal. Luckily, the early signs are promising, and during media availability at OTAs, Jackson spoke about his relationship with Doyle.
"He (Doyle) wants me involved a lot... I'm having fun with it, all of us are having fun with the new system, and what he sees on the field and the film, Jackson said when discussing his early conversations with coach Doyle.Â
"It means a lot because I feel like I should know what coach is thinking when he calls certain plays on the field. It sure makes my job a lot easier," Jackson said when asked what it means to have his fingerprints on the offense.Â
There were already plenty of positive signs regarding Lamar's relationship with the new coaching staff, including his involvement in the coaching search and his attendance in voluntary workout programs.
Without a doubt, though, these comments only add to the positivity, and it's clear that the new coaching staff is focused on empowering Jackson.
Declan Doyle should help Lamar Jackson be at his best
Jackson also described the atmosphere with the new coaching staff as "A breath of fresh air." It's safe to say that the Ravens will get a rejuvenated version of Lamar this season.Â
Frankly, Monken never prioritized Lamar's skill set enough. Despite Jackson being an elite passer, the Ravens ranked in the bottom three in passing attempts per game in each season under Monken.Â
Doyle, on the other hand, has openly spoken about the offense focusing on explosive plays; this new system will better suit Lamar's strengths. Likewise, as Jackson noted, Doyle is ensuring that Lamar is involved in the offense in every possible way.
Much has been made of Doyle's age, who turned 30 shortly after being hired as the Ravens OC. Yes, he's extremely young and will have plenty of responsibilities for a first-time play-caller. Given that he's barely older than Lamar, though, it's also fair to believe that this will ensure the two have more of a natural connection. Monken is a full 30 years older than Doyle, and this may have contributed to the disconnect between him and Jackson.
Lamar is already a two-time MVP (and he should be a three-time MVP), so the thought of him reaching another level might not be at the front of people's minds. Nonetheless, this is a clear possibility -- he has never had a system that has truly empowered him or played to his strengths until now.Â
It's honestly incredibly impressive how great Lamar was in a system that didn't optimize him, and the thought of him in a better system is tantalizing. This, paired with the improvements that should occur simply due to a stronger OC-QB relationship, should have fans dreaming that the Ravens will reach new heights in 2026.
Overall, both from a football and relationship standpoint, the Doyle-Jackson pairing should uplift the Ravens.
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