Ravens' Lamar Jackson Reveals Weight Loss Journey Ahead Of 2024 NFL Season: 'I Looked Out of Shape'

Baltimore Ravens' star quarterback Lamar Jackson has shed approximately 25 pounds since the 2022 season. He had bulked up to 220 pounds for training camp after previously playing at around 208 pounds earlier in his career.

When asked about the significant weight loss since the 2022 season, Jackson, in a training camp interview with CBS Sports' Jonathan Jones on Monday, revealed that he chose to slim down because he felt he "was fat."

"I felt like I was fat," Jackson said. "I just saw a video from two years ago, against the Browns, and I looked out of shape."

When asked whether he perceived himself as running slower or appearing slower, Jackson responded accordingly.

"My eyes might be deceiving me, but I believe I looked a little slower to me," he said. "But not now."

Jackson is considered by many to be the NFL's greatest running quarterback, so his feeling of slowness likely indicates an actual decrease in speed. Regardless, Jackson is probably eager to move past the 2022 season, having missed the last six games, including a playoff matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals, due to a PCL strain. This injury led to career lows in rushing attempts, yards, and touchdowns.

Moreover, Jackson reported feelings of being "fat" and "fatigued" alongside the decrease in speed.

"Just so I could move around without getting fatigued, that's all," Jackson said. "I don't know if I was getting fatigued last year. Probably if I get a first down. But I don't like getting caught if I do decide to run so yeah ... It's part of it."

Slimming down proved effective for Jackson, who made a significant comeback under offensive coordinator Todd Monken in 2023. He achieved career-best figures in completion percentage and passing yards, in addition to rushing for 821 yards and five touchdowns, culminating in his second career MVP award.

The Ravens clinched 13 victories and the conference's top seed, but faced defeat in the AFC Championship game against the Kansas City Chiefs.

Jackson aims to craft a fitting follow-up to his remarkable season as the Ravens kick off the 2024 campaign on Sept. 5, facing the Chiefs once again.

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