Though it really shouldn’t surprise NFL fans, 49ers legend Steve Young is a huge fan of Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson.
Young passionately defended Jackson during an appearance on “The Vault” podcast. The Hall of Famer made it clear that he won’t tolerate any negative comments about Jackson’s skillset.
“Don’t tell me, ‘Well, that’s Lamar – he can’t do certain things.’ I pull my hair out. You can see the emotion I have because do not diminish the potential of what Lamar Jackson can be in the game today,” Young said. “The game is his game. I’ve admired the humility and the savviness of John [Harbaugh] and the people inside the building that have done this because, to me, I think it opens up the possibility for a big victory on Monday night and wins in January.”
Young then said Jackson could go head-to-head with Patrick Mahomes if he continues to develop as a passer.
“I beg. I beg them to continue to take chances to let him develop because I still believe that, like Patrick Mahomes, Lamar could be the greatest player. You see Patrick headed that direction. And I think he and Lamar could go head-to-head for 10 more years. I want to speak for Lamar. He hasn’t asked me to do that, but I feel like I’m the older guy and I gotta speak for my guys.”
Hall of Fame QB Steve Young had to get STUFF OFF HIS CHEST as it pertains to Lamar Jackson.
“Don’t tell me, ‘Well, that’s Lamar – he can’t do certain things.’ I pull my hair out … because do not diminish the potential of what Lamar Jackson can be in the game today. The game… pic.twitter.com/SwQjSEE7gO
— Sarah Ellison (@sgellison) December 23, 2023
Young had the ability to impact the game with his legs, rushing for 4,239 yards in his career. Of course, he also did damage in the pocket, throwing for 33,124 yards and 232 touchdowns.
Jackson has shown tremendous growth this season, completing 66.3 percent of his passes. At this rate, it’ll be the best mark of his young career.
On Monday night, Jackson will face Young’s former team at Levi’s Stadium.