Since being selected with the 31st overall pick in the first round of this year's draft by the Baltimore Ravens, much of the focus around the team has been on his role with the franchise heading into his rookie campaign.
Joe Flacco is expected to continue to maintain the starting job, but the Ravens are expected to get Jackson on the field in sort of capacity given that he's a naturally gifted athlete that can make plays with his legs as well as his arm. With that in mind, the former Louisville standout wants to use the preseason opener on Thursday night against the Chicago Bears to prove that he can play the quarterback position at the next level, according to Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk.
Asked what he wants to show in his first exhibition game in an NFL uniform, Jackson answered, “I’m a quarterback.”
“That’s the first thing I want to show off,” Jackson added. “And just show the growth from college to my new chapter.”
Although Flacco will get the first-team reps on the field to begin the game, the Ravens will likely give Jackson plenty of opportunities on Thursday to showcase what he can do under center. He has shown throughout his collegiate career that he is an effective quarterback with both his arm and legs that the team will likely have a set amount of plays that will help further emphasize that unique ability that he possesses.
The first preseason game will be a chance for him to set the tone in terms what he can offer the Ravens at the quarterback position albeit in a backup role. He will have the entire preseason to prove that he can handle the difficulties that come with transitioning to the next level while proving he be an effective playmaker with both his arm and legs.
This should allow set up for a prime opportunity to make a stronger impression on the coaching staff to help earn him playing time in his rookie season.
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