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Ravens Move Lamar Jackson Under Center to Emphasize Play-Action

The shift is designed to open deeper passing through play-action while its true value will depend on pass protection and early game results.

Overview

  • New offensive play-caller Declan Doyle has installed more under-center snaps for Lamar Jackson in training camp to create longer play-action fakes and open downfield passing.
  • Jackson told the team he is “extremely comfortable” with taking snaps under center, a look he has not run consistently since youth football, signaling early buy-in from the two-time NFL MVP.
  • Practice reps have already shown the concept working, including a play-action completion to Rashod Bateman on August 1 that illustrated the slower mesh and pocket passing Doyle wants.
  • Coaches say the plan also aims to speed exchanges to benefit running back Derrick Henry by forcing quicker defensive decisions, but offensive-line depth and pass protection remain unresolved constraints.
  • The change is still in a developmental phase and will be judged by preseason and regular-season execution, which could affect the Ravens’ title hopes and Jackson’s approaching contract leverage.