After some lackluster attendance during voluntary offseason workouts, Lamar Jackson has changed his tune this year. Undoubtedly, this signals a stronger bond between Lamar and the new coaching staff. Offensive coordinator Declan Doyle will benefit the most from Lamar's attendance at these workouts.
Phase One of the Ravens' workout program consists of meetings, strength and conditioning, and physical rehabilitation. As such, this gives Doyle a perfect chance to build a rhythm with Jackson before his first year as a play-caller. Considering that Doyle is extremely young for an OC (29 years old), getting this extra time with Lamar and making sure everyone is on the same page with Baltimore's new scheme is vital. In general, this will help the two of them build some much-needed chemistry.
Frankly, Lamar's attendance at these offseason workouts shouldn't be all that shocking considering the Ravens' new coaching staff. Nevertheless, given his history, it was always a question whether Jackson would attend, and it's certainly a positive all-around sign that he's been present early on.
Lamar Jackson's attendance at the Baltimore Ravens' offseason workouts benefits Declan Doyle
Beyond Doyle's lack of experience as a play-caller, making it necessary to get some extra time with Lamar, his reported rocky relationship with the previous OC Todd Monken, makes building a strong connection with Jackson especially crucial.
Doyle, being the same age as Jackson, should help the two of them build a more natural connection. Plus, Doyle's strong relationship with Caleb Williams last season is a promising sign. Since being hired, Doyle has made it clear that his offense will focus on explosive plays, which lends itself to Lamar's skill set.
Lamar is already a two-time MVP and one of the league's best QBs. However, it's felt like he's always been in systems that have limited him in one way or another. Thankfully, this feels bound to change with Doyle, and given that they're already getting comfortable with each other, it's fair to expect the Ravens' offense to be firing on all cylinders for the get-go.
All early signs indicate that Doyle and Jackson are building a strong relationship, which will be a real boon to the Ravens' overall ability to compete for a Super Bowl.
The Ravens' front office still has work to do in the draft by upgrading the offensive line and the receiving weapons around Lamar. However, they've already made a lot of positive changes from last year's team, and the Doyle-Jackson connection is poised to be a big difference-maker.