Training camp is always a conflicting time for fans, as it can be difficult to divine any offensive struggles are the result of the unit themselves playing poorly or a stellar defensive showing. Baltimore Ravens fans are wrestling with that question after the latest buzz surrounding Lamar Jackson and Marlon Humphrey.
Jackson's two MVP awards are impressive enough to allow any training camp struggles to be dismissed. However, Baltimore's offense as a whole has struggled to really get in a groove, Humphrey, in need of a shot in the arm to get back on track, has capitalized.
Jackson has already been intercepted four times in practice by Humphrey alone. Rather than focus on Jackson's own poor throwing, the spin has been centered on Humphrey dominating. Jackson had a few barbed jokes aimed at Humphrey after this showing, critiquing his performance from last year.
Jackson joked that his interceptions were on purpose, as Humphrey struggled to catch the ball last season and needed the extra repetitions in practice. After the loss of standout DC and new Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald, Baltimore needs Humphrey to stand out.
Marlon Humphrey picks off Lamar Jackson again. In Jackson’s three practices this camp, Humphrey has now intercepted him four times.
— Jamison Hensley (@jamisonhensley) July 29, 2024
Marlon Humphrey dominating Lamar Jackson at Ravens training camp
Humphrey came into training camp needing to show that he is still a high-end cornerback. After his injuries in 2023, many started to wonder if Humphrey would be a cap casualty next season as Baltimore tries their best to remain financially flexible. While he is still a Pro Bowl talent, his body starting to fail him has cast doubt over the next few seasons in Baltimore.
If Humphrey is playing like this and reaching the All-Pro heights he has proven he can attain in the past, this defense could be scary good. With first-round pick Nate Wiggins joining him, Kyle Hamilton, and Marcus Williams, Baltimore may have the best secondary in the AFC.
As for Jackson, these results are clearly not ideal, and it continues what has been an iffy training camp for him. However, Jackson, who dealt with an illness, is a two-time MVP who has struggled in camp before. Throwing picks to Humphrey in practice is better than throwing them to Minkah Fitzpatrick in a live game.
Rather than tear Jackson down, Ravens fans should be looking at Humphrey with stars in their eyes. One of their biggest question marks could be well on his way to another successful season, as even the mighty Lamar Jackson is having some struggles.