In a bold and controversial prediction, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith has stated that Lamar Jackson will win the NFL MVP this season, but—wait for it—no one will care. Now, that’s a take that’s sure to stir up some strong reactions, but what exactly is Stephen A. getting at, and is there any truth to his claim?
Lamar Jackson, the electrifying quarterback of the Baltimore Ravens, has always been a dynamic force in the NFL. With his rare combination of arm strength, vision, and blazing speed, Jackson has already proven himself to be a game-changer. He won the MVP award in 2019, and his playmaking ability continues to captivate fans, particularly with his ability to break records and carry his team with little help from a top-tier supporting cast. But the notion that he could win the MVP again and have it go largely unnoticed brings us to a larger discussion about how Lamar Jackson’s greatness is perceived.
Stephen A.’s comment seems to stem from a broader narrative surrounding Jackson’s career—a narrative that has often been divided between praise for his unique talents and criticism for his perceived inability to lead his team to a deep playoff run. While Jackson’s regular-season performances often dazzle, his postseason struggles have been a point of contention. The question for many is whether his regular-season brilliance is overshadowed by his inability to break through in the playoffs and secure that elusive Super Bowl appearance.
Moreover, there’s also the issue of Lamar Jackson’s contract situation and the long-running questions surrounding his future in Baltimore. Some may view his MVP campaign as a part of a larger negotiation strategy, rather than a celebration of a historic season. Fans and pundits alike may see his performance through the lens of contract talks and long-term franchise questions, rather than appreciating him as the dynamic playmaker he is.
Another factor at play here is the shifting landscape of the NFL. We live in an era dominated by flashy quarterbacks, high-scoring offenses, and an increasing focus on the passing game. Jackson, with his unique running style, doesn’t fit the mold of the traditional pocket passer that many fans have grown accustomed to. Though his dual-threat ability makes him one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the league, there’s still a vocal segment of football observers who downplay his style in comparison to others.
All of this contributes to Stephen A.’s prediction that Lamar Jackson’s MVP win could be met with indifference or a lack of true recognition. If Jackson’s performance isn’t accompanied by deep playoff success or if the media narrative continues to focus on other quarterbacks and teams, his win could feel less impactful to casual fans or analysts. In a league so driven by the pursuit of championships, regular-season accolades sometimes take a backseat if they aren’t accompanied by postseason glory.
However, that doesn’t mean Lamar Jackson won’t deserve the recognition if he does win the MVP. His unique skill set and ability to change the game should be appreciated regardless of the surrounding narratives. Jackson’s success—both in the regular season and potentially in the playoffs—deserves to be celebrated, even if others might not give it the attention it warrants.
In conclusion, while Stephen A. Smith’s prediction is sure to generate plenty of discussion, it raises valid points about the way we view MVP candidates and the weight we place on regular-season awards versus postseason achievements. Lamar Jackson’s talent and potential for greatness are undeniable, but whether or not his MVP season is celebrated to the extent it deserves may depend on factors beyond just his performance on the field. If he does win the award, it may indeed be one of those “underappreciated” moments in NFL history—at least, according to Stephen A.
