The Baltimore Ravens and the University of Louisville pulled off an epic surprise for quarterback Lamar Jackson on Saturday, October 16.
Jackson showed up in a Ravens conference room expecting to do an interview.
Instead, the room had extra props in it including his University of Louisville football jersey.
A video message from members of the University of Louisville was then shown to Jackson.
Check out Lamar Jackson’s reaction when Louisville gave him the news that his number is getting retired … Fantastic. pic.twitter.com/cpMTNF5z4e
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) October 16, 2021
It was then that he learned his number 8 would be retired at the University of Louisville.
The 24-year-old Heisman Trophy winner was visibly moved by the announcement.
His Reaction
Jackson showed immense gratitude for the honor.
He is blown away by the timing since he is still so young.
His immediate next thought went to the other former Louisville Cardinal who also had his number retired.
That person has strong Baltimore ties also.
He is Johnny Unitas, former Baltimore Colt and a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Jackson is humble enough to know that anytime his name is mentioned along with Johnny Unitas’s, it is a special feat.
johnny unitas 🤝 lamar jackson
louisville AND baltimore legends
💍 🔜 pic.twitter.com/UgfUTodg8j
— 🌵 (@SimplyAS10prod) October 16, 2021
Unitas is a three-time NFL MVP and three-time NFL champion.
Jackson, in his fourth year, is on his way.
He already earned one NFL MVP award.
MVP Play In 2021
Jackson has gotten off to an MVP caliber start in 2021.
He has over 1,500 yards passing through five games with 8 touchdowns and only 3 interceptions.
Jackson has also rushed for over 340 yards and 2 touchdowns.
He is the 5th ranking passer and the 8th leading rusher (including running backs) in the NFL.
Lamar Jackson is 5th in NFL in passing and 8th in the NFL in rushing 🤯.
.— Andrew Hawkins (@Hawk) October 12, 2021
Jackson has delivered come from behind thrilling victories and never seems to tire of using his legs and throwing arm to lead his team.
He is a phenomenal athlete and the absolute heart and soul of the Ravens team.
Though he has accomplished so much, it is clear that Jackson is motivated to bring a Super Bowl home to Baltimore.
It is a long season ahead, but the Ravens lead the AFC North with a 4-1 record.
They have a very good chance of competing and contending in the postseason with Jackson under center.
NEXT: Ravens Rushing Attack Now Limited To Just Lamar Jackson
