Ja'Kobi Lane's impressive Ravens debut has already earned the attention of the most important player in Baltimore's offense. Lamar Jackson had high praise for the rookie wide receiver after Lane caught a 15-yard touchdown from Joe Fagnano in the second quarter of Saturday's preseason opener against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Speaking during a sideline interview, Jackson pointed specifically to the traits that have made Lane such a popular player throughout training camp.
"Man, his aggressiveness to go get the ball – he's attacking the ball," Jackson said. "Big hands, tough receiver. That's what we need. We need that. ... It's amazing. The sky is the limit for him."
The comments carry weight because Jackson has spent the summer building chemistry with Lane during training camp. Baltimore's official practice reports have repeatedly highlighted Lane's ability to make difficult catches, including contested grabs against established defensive backs.
Ravens QB Lamar Jackson on WR Ja'Kobi Lane's touchdown via @EvanWashburn sideline interview:
"Man, his aggressiveness to go get the ball – he's attacking the ball. Big hands, tough receiver. That's what we need. We need that. ... It's amazing. The sky is the limit for him."
That chemistry was on display before Lane's touchdown. The rookie had already recorded a 19-yard reception across the middle, giving him multiple opportunities to demonstrate the physical traits that made him an intriguing third-round selection.
Lane's touchdown gave him three receptions for 38 yards and a score in his first NFL game, an impressive opening statement for a player competing for a role in Baltimore's wide receiver rotation. Jackson's comments also reveal what the Ravens want from Lane. His size, strong hands and willingness to attack the football give Baltimore a different dimension at receiver, particularly in contested situations and around the goal line.
Ja'Kobi Lane finds the end zone early in his first NFL game 🔥
(Via @NFL)pic.twitter.com/GtxsFJaiRk
It is far too early to project Lane into a major role based on one preseason game. But the combination of his training-camp production, immediate game impact and growing connection with Jackson is difficult to ignore.
And if Jackson is right, Lane's first NFL touchdown could be just the beginning.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Lamar Jackson has high praise for Ja'Kobi Lane after Ravens rookie’s TD
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