Baltimore Ravens head coach Jesse Minter hopes to create an enjoyable atmosphere in the upcoming voluntary workouts – with or without Lamar Jackson.
The 2026 NFL season is slowly approaching, and new Baltimore Ravens head coach Jesse Minter will look to make his mark.
Voluntary workouts are set to begin on April 6; however, whether or not Lamar Jackson will be in attendance is unclear. Minter said he is unsure if the two-time MVP will be there.
The first time head coach wil look to guide the Ravens back to the juggernaut they've established themselves as over the past handful of years. Minter will have his hands full, but he's confident that he can create the type of culture he wants soon when voluntary workouts begin.
"I know Lamar's excited," Minter said. "I think he is excited about some of the changes. We've had a lot of good connection points, but the offseason program is voluntary, and we're excited to get a chance to work with the guys, whoever wants to show up."
Minter is still excited and has his hopes up regarding the availability of Jackson next week.
Many might not view his availability as a big deal, as he's skipped most of the voluntary work throughout his eight-year career. However, this season is different.
For the first time in his career, Jackson will enter the season with a new head coach. On top of that, the Ravens have lost a ton of key players this offseason. With that, it may be in Jackson's best interest to attend, even if that's for a day or two.
The three-time All-Pro quarterback did not attend eight of the nine on-field practices before mandatory minicamp. This season, the Ravens' mandatory minicamp runs from June 9 to June 11.
The 29-year-old is among the most dynamic quarterbacks in the league and arguably the best player in the NFL. Injuries derailed his 2025 campaign, finishing with 2,549 passing yards, 192 total completions, a completion percentage of 63.6 percent, 21 touchdowns and seven interceptions. He led the Ravens to a 6-7 record when he was under center in 2025.
That was by far Jackson's worst record as a starting quarterback. Jackson has a 65 percent win percentage as the starter, winning 76 games in 116 total games.
The former Louisville Cardinal has shown that he can do it all on the football field. However, the one blemish in Jackson's career is that he has yet to take the Ravens to the promised land.
Many point the blame at Jackson for the shortcomings. Whether that's true or not, all eyes will be on the Ravens new regime led by Minter.
Jackson enters the 2026 season tied for the best career passer rating (102.2) and has produced the most rushing yards ever by a quarterback (6,522).