Lamar Jackson Prepares for Showdown with Former Teammate Joe Flacco
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is gearing up for an exciting matchup against the Cleveland Browns in Week 2, and this time, he’s facing off against a familiar face—former Ravens teammate Joe Flacco. The two shared a locker room in 2018, when Jackson was a rookie and Flacco was the established starter.
A Unique Rivalry
Jackson’s anticipation for this game is palpable, especially knowing that Flacco will lead the Browns onto the field. The rivalry between the Ravens and the Browns adds an extra layer of intensity to the encounter. Jackson reflected on the significance of the matchup, saying, “A division rival, and [you think about] how many times you have to face [the Browns] each season. [After] seeing my guy in the meeting room my rookie year, it’ll definitely be different. Just [because of] the rivalry. It’ll be different.”
Fond Memories of Flacco
Their time as teammates left a lasting impression on Jackson. He fondly recalls Flacco’s impact on his development, particularly during his rookie season. “I just remember Joe Flacco being in the meeting room and how cool he was with things he would say. And how funny he was,” Jackson noted. “I don’t know if people know, but ‘Flacc’ is funny. He used to have me rolling as a rookie. I used to be like, ‘Man, this man just says stuff so nonchalantly.’ It is great. He is a great person to be around.”
Flacco’s Legacy in Baltimore
Flacco, who was drafted in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft from Delaware, spent a decade as the Ravens’ starting quarterback. His crowning achievement came in 2013 when he led Baltimore to its second Super Bowl victory, earning the franchise its second Lombardi Trophy. Even as his career progressed and he transitioned to a journeyman role in the NFL, Flacco remains a respected figure in Baltimore, known for his professionalism and character.
Despite their shared history and respect for one another, when the two teams take the field, all friendships will be set aside. Flacco now represents an opposing team, and Jackson is determined to lead the Ravens to victory.
As the Ravens and Browns prepare to clash, the storyline of Jackson versus Flacco adds a compelling dynamic to what promises to be an intense division rivalry.
