Quarterbacks Under the Most Pressure in 2022

2022’s QBs under the most pressure: Lamar Jackson

Written by: Dylan Schmittler

Every NFL season, quarterbacks are tasked with carrying their teams to key wins every week. Whether as a drop-back passer or dual-threat athlete, quarterbacks need every aspect working in a game. Like all seasons, some passers face more pressure heading into a new season. Whether it is a new contract or a team that believes in its young passer, the top quarterbacks can shine in the game’s biggest moments. This year, Baltimore Ravens star Lamar Jackson is the first of my three quarterbacks facing the most pressure in 2022.

In four NFL seasons, the former Louisville star has excited the NFL with his rushing and improved passing. The Ravens have become known for their unique run-first offense in a pass-dominated NFL.

In 2021, Lamar missed the last four games with a right ankle injury as the Ravens missed the playoffs at 9-8. Jackson threw a career-high 13 interceptions while being sacked 38 times last season.

The big storyline is that Lamar’s rookie deal ends after this season. In an era where quarterbacks never get close to free agency, Jackson is still looking for his mega-contract just one deal before potentially hitting the open market. Derek Carr, Matthew Stafford, and Deshaun Watson have all been signed to big deals.

While Lamar is still likely Baltimore’s starting quarterback for years to come, an injury-plagued or disappointing season could send Baltimore into a predicament over whether to give Jackson a big contract. In four NFL seasons, Lamar has rushed 615 times not counting sacks or quarterback hits. Can his body handle the punishment or a dual-threat passer for the next several seasons?

The division could also have a huge say in any contract negotiations. The AFC North has become a division with young quarterbacks. Cincinnati Bengals star Joe Burrow led his team to the Super Bowl. Cleveland Browns’ new quarterback Deshaun Watson (If he is not suspended) is one of the most talented throwers in the NFL. The Pittsburgh Steelers will have Mitchell Trubisky and Pitt’s Kenny Pickett battle to replace Ben Roethlisberger after 18 seasons.

Baltimore’s draft also left a few people scratching their heads after the Ravens traded Marquise Brown to the Arizona Cardinals. Despite getting great values with Notre Dame’s Kyle Hamilton and Iowa’s Tyler Linderbaum, the Ravens’ offense lacks a top receiver where stars like Cooper Kupp, Davante Adams, and Ja’Marr Chase have changed the position. Tight End Mark Andrews led the teams with 107 catches for 1,361 yards and nine touchdowns in his remarkable 2021 campaign.

This season, the Ravens have expectations to make the playoffs and contend in the AFC North. To do that, Lamar Jackson will need a healthy and consistent 2022 campaign for the Ravens. He is also one of 2022’s quarterbacks under the most pressure.