Lamar Jackson, the quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens, took it upon himself to eliminate distractions in the locker room by ordering the removal of video game consoles, ping pong tables, and even cornhole. This decision came just before the team’s 30-16 victory against the Chicago Bears. Jackson felt the need for increased focus, especially considering the team’s rough start—one win and five losses, all complicated by his own hamstring injury.
“I told Kennico (Hines), the equipment manager, to stop all the games and the ping pong… I would have gotten rid of the TVs entirely if I could,” Jackson shared when speaking to reporters on Tuesday.
He acknowledged the support from team owner Steve Bisciotti in making these changes but emphasized that it was essential for the team to concentrate more deeply. He noted, “I’m not saying people aren’t serious about their roles, but honestly, it just didn’t feel like the right time. We have quite a bit to accomplish.”
Initially, there were reports suggesting that head coach John Harbaugh had been the one to make the call to remove the games. Nevertheless, the strategy seemed effective, as the Ravens pulled off a solid win against the Bears, with backup quarterback Tyler “Snoop” Huntley stepping in during Jackson’s absence.
Even after the victory, Jackson made it clear that locker room distractions would remain off-limits for the rest of the season. He has been sidelined since September 28 due to injury.
With this win, the Ravens improved their record to 2-5, and Jackson’s return to games suggests they’ll be aiming for another victory against the Miami Dolphins on Thursday night. Currently sitting third in their division, the Ravens are looking to climb the ranks in the AFC North, trailing the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cincinnati Bengals.
