Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is hoping to be even more explosive next season after being crowned NFL MVP for 2023.

When Jackson arrived at voluntary OTAs back in May he was much leaner than he was at the end of last season. The quarterback didn’t state how much weight he had dropped but has now admitted he felt “fat” and wanted to slim down.

However, the reason for his weight loss isn’t just because of how he felt, as Jackson wants to be in peak physical condition for next season and be an even better athlete. Jackson is known for his dual-threat style and sharpness on the ground and could be even more dangerous next season.

Lamar Jackson confirmed he wants to be “less fatigued” next season. (Image: ESPN)

“I was fat. I saw a video from two years ago from (the game against) the Browns and I was out of shape. But I was in shape,” Jackson told CBS Sports. “My eyes might be deceiving me but I believe I looked a little slower [two years ago], but not now.”

Jackson continued, adding more reasons for his weight shift: “Just so I could move around without getting fatigued, that’s all. I don’t know if I was getting fatigued last year if I get a first down but I don’t like getting caught if I do decide to run. So it’s part of it. I’m only 27, I’m still young.”

Last year Jackson had 148 carries for 821 yards, his highest total since the 2020 season. He averaged 5.5 yards on each carry and scored five touchdowns, but it’s expected that those numbers will rise next season based on his clear intentions.

Jackson won his second MVP award after going 13-3 with the Ravens, securing the No. 1 seed in the AFC Conference. The Ravens made it to the AFC Championship game where they fell against the Kansas City Chiefs, who went on to win Super Bowl LVIII.

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The Ravens quarterback was untouchable on the ground in the 2019 season, as he had 1,206 yards off 176 carries and seven touchdowns. He was named NFL MVP for the first time that season and could attempt to replicate those numbers.

The weight loss hasn’t gone unnoticed in training camp and toward the start of OTAs wide receiver Zay Flowers called Jackson “skinny” when seeing him for the first time. Jackson feels great, and Ravens head coach John Harbaugh doesn’t have any issues with his decision.

“I mean, it’s fine. I think that’s Lamar. He’s a pro. He knows what he’s doing. He knows where he wants to be with that,” Harbaugh said. “My concern is that he’s in shape, the best shape of his life, and he’s working toward that.

“He’s ready football-wise, all the details that go with that – mentally, physically, spiritually ready to go. That’s kind of what I think about. I know he talks to the strength and conditioning people. He’s got his own people. He talks to [director of sports nutrition] Sarah [Snyder] all the time. He’s a pro. He knows what he’s doing.”