Lamar Jackson faced fresh criticism on July 7, 2026, when former NFL star Cris Carter publicly rejected the notion that the Ravens quarterback forced three coaches out, insisting the blame lies with the staff and scheme.
What did Cris Carter say?
During the "Fully Loaded" podcast, eight‑time Pro Bowl receiver Cris Carter responded to a listener’s claim that Jackson is “the most overrated quarterback in NFL history.” He called the idea “impossible,” noting that many quarterbacks once praised later faded. Carter then tackled the specific accusation that Jackson caused the dismissals of offensive coordinator Todd Monken and head coach John Harbaugh, labeling it a misinterpretation of the situation.
Why Carter blames coaching, not Jackson
Carter explained that Monken’s relationship with Jackson was strained, but he placed responsibility squarely on Monken, who now leads the Cleveland Browns. “Monken didn’t have a good relationship with him, and that was Monken’s fault,” Carter said. He also dismissed the claim that Harbaugh was fired because of Jackson, pointing out the coach doesn’t control defense, special teams, or offseason training, all of which contributed to the Ravens’ injury woes.
How the criticism fits the Ravens’ current narrative
The Ravens entered the 2026 offseason with a new offensive coordinator, Declan Doyle, and a new defensive coordinator, Jesse Minter, after Harbaugh’s departure. Carter warned that Jackson must adapt quickly to Doyle’s under‑center concepts if he hopes to lead Baltimore back to the playoffs. He emphasized that the quarterback’s growth as a vocal leader will be tested in high‑pressure moments.
What’s next for Lamar Jackson?
Jackson, now 29, faces a pivotal year. The former MVP will work under Minter’s defensive scheme and Doyle’s revamped offense, both demanding precision and consistency. Carter noted that Jackson’s priority should be mastering the new playbook while maintaining the elite production that earned him four Pro Bowl selections and three first‑team All‑Pro honors. Success this season could silence doubters and prove that the quarterback’s performance, not coaching turnover, drives the Ravens’ fortunes.
How fans and analysts are reacting
Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers, who once fumbled a potential touchdown against the Kansas City Chiefs, was also mentioned by Carter as a player unfairly linked to Jackson’s perceived failures. Carter reminded listeners that the drop by All‑Pro tight end Mark Andrews in the 2024 playoff loss to Buffalo was a team issue, not a quarterback one. The podcast sparked a lively debate on social media, with many fans echoing Carter’s view that Jackson deserves credit for his on‑field achievements despite the franchise’s recent turbulence.