Voters discuss the process as current and former Baltimore Ravens and NFL players vent over Lamar Jackson’s loss as MVP.

Voters Discuss the Process: Current and Former Baltimore Ravens and NFL Players Vent Over Lamar Jackson’s Loss as MVP

The MVP race in the NFL is often a source of heated debate, and one of the most talked-about incidents in recent memory has been Lamar Jackson’s loss of the MVP award in 2019. Despite leading the Baltimore Ravens to a 14-2 record, breaking multiple records, and playing some of the best football in recent history, Jackson’s stellar season did not secure him the MVP award. Many voters, including current and former NFL players, voiced their concerns over the process that led to Jackson’s loss. These discussions, often filled with passion, frustration, and disappointment, provide a deeper look into the complexities of the MVP voting process and the factors that influence it.

The Lamar Jackson Phenomenon

Lamar Jackson’s 2019 season was one of the most electrifying in NFL history. His ability to extend plays with his legs, along with his impressive development as a passer, set him apart from the rest of the league. Jackson became the first quarterback in NFL history to rush for over 1,000 yards in a season while throwing for over 3,100 yards and 36 touchdowns. His performances were consistently outstanding, and he led the Ravens to a 14-2 record, the best in the NFL.

Jackson’s unique playing style and his ability to elevate his team’s performance led to an outpouring of support for him to win the MVP award. However, despite his historic season, the MVP voting process seemed to favor other candidates, particularly Russell Wilson and Patrick Mahomes. While both quarterbacks had impressive seasons, many felt that Jackson’s achievements were deserving of the league’s highest individual honor.

The MVP Voting Process: A Deep Dive

The MVP voting process in the NFL is conducted by a panel of 50 sportswriters, broadcasters, and former players. Each voter submits a ballot that ranks the top five players in the league, and the player with the most points is awarded the MVP. This process, while meant to be objective, has come under scrutiny over the years due to the subjective nature of the voting criteria.

Many voters are influenced by a variety of factors, including narrative, media exposure, and team success. While individual statistics and performance are certainly important, the way voters perceive a player’s value to their team and the league often weighs heavily in the decision. This can lead to discrepancies, as some voters may prioritize traditional metrics such as passing yards and touchdowns, while others may place more emphasis on leadership, consistency, or the overall impact a player has on his team’s success.

In the case of Lamar Jackson, many voters seemed to place more value on traditional quarterback statistics and overlooked the groundbreaking nature of his season. While Jackson’s rushing yards and touchdowns were impressive, some voters questioned whether his unconventional style of play could truly be considered MVP-worthy. Additionally, Jackson’s success came with a strong supporting cast and a team that was built to complement his skill set, leading some to believe that his individual performance was less impressive when compared to players like Wilson or Mahomes.

The Vocal Support of Former and Current Ravens Players

The controversy surrounding Lamar Jackson’s MVP loss did not go unnoticed by the players themselves, particularly those within the Ravens organization. Current and former Ravens players voiced their frustration over the voting process, arguing that Jackson’s unique achievements deserved more recognition.

Former Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco, who led the team to a Super Bowl victory in 2012, was one of the most outspoken critics of the MVP voting process. Flacco expressed his disbelief that Jackson was not given the award, citing his unprecedented level of play and the way he transformed the Ravens’ offense. In an interview, Flacco noted, “What Lamar did this year was incredible. He changed the game, and he should have been recognized for it. It’s frustrating to see him not get the MVP after the season he had.”

Other former Ravens players, such as Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs, also voiced their support for Jackson. Lewis, one of the most respected defensive players in NFL history, took to social media to express his disappointment with the voting results. “Lamar Jackson is the most electrifying player in the league right now. There’s no question he should have been the MVP. It’s disrespectful to overlook what he accomplished,” Lewis said.

Former Ravens wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. was equally vocal in his support of Jackson. Smith, known for his fiery personality and outspoken nature, called out the media and voters for their bias against Jackson’s playing style. “People are so used to seeing a traditional quarterback, but Lamar is changing the game. If you can’t appreciate that, you’re not watching football,” Smith said in an interview.

Even current Ravens players, such as cornerback Marlon Humphrey and linebacker Patrick Onwuasor, joined in on the conversation, expressing their belief that Jackson was the clear MVP. Humphrey posted a message on Twitter, writing, “Lamar is the heart and soul of this team. Without him, we don’t go 14-2. He deserves the MVP, no question.” Onwuasor, meanwhile, shared his frustration in a podcast appearance, saying, “Lamar did things that no one has ever done before. For him to not get the MVP is a joke.”

The Media’s Role in the MVP Debate

The media’s influence on the MVP voting process cannot be overstated. In many ways, the narrative surrounding a player’s season can be just as important as their on-field performance. Lamar Jackson’s unique playing style, while revolutionary, did not always fit into the traditional narrative of what an MVP should look like. While Jackson was widely praised by fans and analysts for his historic season, some members of the media seemed hesitant to fully embrace him as the league’s best player.

One of the most significant factors that played a role in Jackson’s loss was the media’s preference for more conventional quarterbacks. Players like Russell Wilson and Patrick Mahomes, who relied on traditional pocket-passing skills, were often portrayed as the more “safe” choices for MVP. Despite Jackson’s incredible stats and impact on the Ravens’ success, some in the media were reluctant to give him the award because his playing style broke away from the traditional quarterback mold.

Former NFL quarterback and current broadcaster Tony Romo expressed his admiration for Jackson’s season but also mentioned that the MVP race was too close to call. “Lamar’s season was incredible, but when you look at the totality of the quarterback position, you can make a case for Mahomes or Wilson,” Romo said during a broadcast. While Romo acknowledged Jackson’s achievements, his comments reflected the broader media tendency to view Jackson’s season through a more traditional lens.

The Fan Perspective: A Different Story

While the media and voters were divided on the MVP issue, the fan perspective was much clearer. Fans of Lamar Jackson, especially those in Baltimore, were outspoken in their belief that the MVP award was rightfully his. Social media platforms were flooded with posts and comments expressing disbelief at the decision to award the MVP to another player. Hashtags such as #MVPForLamar trended for days following the announcement, with fans voicing their frustration and supporting Jackson’s case.

Baltimore Ravens fans, in particular, felt that the MVP loss was a slap in the face to their team and their city. The Ravens’ 14-2 record and Jackson’s individual brilliance seemed to be more than enough to earn him the award. Many fans took to social media to share clips of Jackson’s best plays from the season, pointing to his incredible runs, touchdown passes, and leadership on the field as clear evidence of his MVP-worthy performance.

The Legacy of Lamar Jackson

Despite not winning the MVP award in 2019, Lamar Jackson’s legacy as one of the most dynamic players in NFL history remains intact. His groundbreaking season helped redefine the quarterback position and proved that the NFL was entering a new era of dual-threat quarterbacks. Jackson’s ability to run and throw at an elite level set him apart from other players and made him one of the most exciting talents in the league.

While the MVP loss was undoubtedly a setback, it did not diminish Jackson’s accomplishments or his impact on the game. In fact, many players, analysts, and fans continue to view Jackson as one of the most influential figures in the sport. His loss in the MVP race only fueled the fire for those who believe in his greatness, and it serves as a reminder that the MVP voting process, while important, does not always reflect the true value of a player’s contribution to the league.

 A Continuing Debate

The debate over Lamar Jackson’s MVP loss is far from over. It highlights the complexities of the MVP voting process and the challenges of determining who truly deserves the award. As long as there are differing opinions and biases in the voting process, discussions like these will continue to shape the conversation around individual player recognition in the NFL.

Ultimately, Lamar Jackson’s performance in the 2019 season stands as a testament to his skill, dedication, and ability to change the game. Whether he won the MVP or not, his legacy is secure, and his influence on the league will be felt for years to come. For Ravens fans, current and former players, and supporters of Jackson, the argument for his MVP win will remain a proud and passionate part of NFL history.