Ravens' Lamar Jackson expects less running, more throwing - ESPN

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Lamar Jackson's first impression of the Baltimore Ravens' new offense: more freedom and less reliance on his legs.

After his first practice with new Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken, Jackson was extremely pleased with the direction of the new scheme and believes a philosophy change was needed to be successful going forward.

«Less running and more throwing,» Jackson said when asked what this offense will allow him to showcase.

Jackson is the most prolific running quarterback in NFL history. His 4,437 career rushing yards are the most by any quarterback in their first five seasons — 1,230 yards more than Cam Newton, who ranks second.

Baltimore is 16-1 when Jackson runs for 90 or more yards, but the quarterback has also taken an NFL-high 877 hits over the past five seasons.

Jackson flashed a big smile when asked if his rushing attempts will be scaled back this year.

«Absolutely, absolutely,» Jackson said. «Especially with the receivers we have.»

The Ravens revamped a group that ranked last in the NFL last season in receiving yards. Baltimore signed Odell Beckham Jr. and Nelson Agholor in free agency and then drafted Zay Flowers in the first round.

Jackson indicated the improved supporting cast will change the focus of the offense. In four seasons under former offensive coordinator Greg Roman, the Ravens ranked first in rushing attempts (2,194) and second to last in passing attempts (1,945).

«Running can only take you so far,» Jackson said. «And I feel like with this new era of teams and offenses in the league, I feel like we need that. Coach Todd Monken, what I'm seeing in his offense so far, is looking tremendous.»

Wednesday's practice was Jackson's first since he became the NFL's highest-paid