(Pittsburgh, 2026-01-02) – Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson directly addressed recent criticism of his work ethic and relationship with coach John Harbaugh, dismissing the reports as “noise” ahead of Sunday’s crucial AFC North title game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The Ravens’ star quarterback responded to questions about his commitment and future with the team, emphasizing his focus on winning and downplaying speculation about his contract.
- Lamar Jackson refuted claims questioning his work ethic and relationship with Head Coach John Harbaugh.
- Jackson stated he is focused solely on winning and deferred contract negotiations until after the season.
- The quarterback is expected to return from a back contusion and play in Sunday’s AFC North title game.
Jackson, who is poised to return from a back contusion for the game in Pittsburgh, responded to a local columnist’s report that questioned his dedication and suggested the Ravens consider trading him.”I don’t really care about the criticism,” Jackson said Thursday. “It’s going to be that way, especially with how the season was going and stuff like that. When you’re winning, there’s no noise. But soon as you lose, or things don’t look right, all types of noise come out of nowhere. So, it is indeed what it is.”
Specifically addressing allegations that he stays up late playing video games and falls asleep during team meetings,Jackson laughed off the claims.”Do you think harbaugh would let me fall asleep in his meeting? That’s crazy. I’m right in the front,” he said. He also denied reports of late-night gaming, stating, “I heard that I [was] playing a game at like one or two in the morning. I don’t even do that during the summer, so I don’t know where that comes from either.”
Jackson and Harbaugh have worked together since 2008. When asked about their relationship, Jackson responded, “Yes, I believe so. Like I said, I don’t know where the noise came from.”
Contract Talks on Hold
With jackson’s salary cap hit projected to reach $74.5 million next season, questions about a potential contract extension have intensified. though, Jackson made it clear that his current focus is on the field. “Absolutely, man. absolutely. Absolutely. Absolutely. I don’t even know where that comes from,” he said when asked if he wants to remain in Baltimore.”We have to focus on winning right now. So, contract talk can be after the season or whatever, but during the season, I’m locked in.”
“When you’re winning, there’s no noise. But soon as you lose, or things don’t look right, all types of noise come out of nowhere.” – Lamar Jackson
Why It Matters
The timing of this controversy, just before a pivotal divisional game, underscores the intense scrutiny Jackson faces as the face of the Ravens franchise. His performance and leadership are critical to Baltimore’s Super Bowl aspirations, and any perceived distraction could derail their season. The contract situation adds another layer of complexity, as the Ravens must decide whether to invest heavily in their star quarterback or explore choice options.Jackson’s firm stance on prioritizing winning demonstrates a commitment to the team’s immediate goals, but the looming contract negotiations will undoubtedly be a major storyline throughout the offseason.
