“OBJ Looked Pretty Smooth”: Lamar Jackson Showers Praise on Veteran Receiver After First Practice

Lamar Jackson is gearing up for the 2023 season with a valuable addition to the Baltimore Ravens roster: veteran wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. In a recent press interaction, QB Jackson showered praise on Beckham, suggesting that his presence will contribute to the team’s success and will help the Ravens compete against formidable AFC opponents such as the Buffalo Bills, Kansas City Chiefs, and Miami Dolphins.

Having witnessed Lamar’s electrifying performances on the field, it is evident that the Ravens cannot rely solely on his abilities to carry the team. They need a well-rounded offense to maximize their potential. The addition of Beckham, who recently recovered from a serious knee injury sustained during Super Bowl LVI, could prove to be the missing piece that completes the Ravens’ offensive puzzle.

“Odell is a legend”: Lamar Jackson

Recently, while talking to reporters, Lamar Jackson shared his thoughts on practicing with Odell Beckham Jr. for the very first time. Jackson expressed admiration for the veteran’s accomplishments, including his title win with the Los Angeles Rams back in 2022.

Referring to Odell as a legend, Jackson emphasized the significance of having him in the unit. Regarding their first practice session together, Jackson remarked, “I think he looked pretty smooth. [He has] great hands as everybody knows, you know he can catch the ball.”

Ravens OC Todd Monken on what Odell Beckham Jr. can impact Lamar Jackson: “I hope he brings a certain level of trust.” pic.twitter.com/6hpYiZQ2pb

— Jamison Hensley (@jamisonhensley) June 14, 2023

The Ravens are banking on Beckham’s talents to enhance their passing attack. This is of paramount importance considering their receivers’ lackluster performance in recent seasons. In three of the previous four seasons, Baltimore’s WRs have ranked last in the league in receiving yards. This kind of makes Beckham’s arrival all the more crucial for their offensive success.

Ravens are betting big on Odell Beckham Jr.

OBJ’s track record speaks volumes about his talent and performances over the years. He was the 12th overall pick in the 2014 draft. Beckham quickly made a name for himself, earning the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award. With more than 1,300 receiving yards in his initial three seasons, OBJ consistently reminded the world of his skills. In 2021, he secured his first Super Bowl victory with the Los Angeles Rams.

In order to secure the services of Odell Beckham Jr, the Ravens loosened their purse strings while making a substantial financial commitment. They signed OBJ on a one-year, $15 million contract. This marks the team’s largest one-year payout to a wide receiver ever in history.

The investment demonstrates the Ravens’ confidence in Beckham’s ability to change the team’s luck and performance for the better. Considering the money in question, Beckham’s 2023 earnings will surpass those of other notable free-agent wide receivers. This includes players such as Mike Evans, DK Metcalf, and A.J. Brown.

One thing that the Ravens would be tense about is OBJ’s fitness. After all, Beckham is recovering from a second surgery on the ACL in his left knee and hasn’t played a game in 14 months. It will be interesting to see how the star WR performs for his new team.