Lamar Jackson Tests Positive for COVID-19, Misses First Day of Training Camp

The Ravens quarterback and former Louisville star missed the first day of training camp, and could potentially miss more time.

(Photo of Lamar Jackson: Rich Barnes - USA TODAY Sports)

BALTIMORE - Baltimore Ravens quarterback and former Louisville star Lamar Jackson has tested positive for COVID-19, Ravens head coach Jim Harbaugh announced Wednesday.

He was absent from the first day of training camp, and it was reported Wednesday morning that it stemmed from a “COVID-related case” that the NFL was still trying to process before it was confirmed he was positive for the virus.

Jackson missed last season’s Week 12 game at Pittsburgh due a positive test, and earlier this summer, declined to say whether or not he was indeed vaccinated. Current NFL rules state that unvaccinated players must be sidelined for at least 10 days before returning to team activities.

“Just like everyone in society, it’s their decision, keeping that to themselves,” Jackson said in June. “But I feel we do a great job here of taking the vaccine, staying away from COVID, following the right preparation and stuff like that, staying away from the outside to the people that are attracting it.”

Since entering the league in 2018, the 6-foot-2, 212-pound quarterback has been one of the most electric players in the NFL. He has lead the Ravens to a 30-7 record as a starter, including winning the 2019 NFL MVP. In 46 total games, he has amassed 9,991 total yards of offense and 87 touchdowns.

This past April, the Ravens exercised Jackson’s fifth year option for the 2022 season, worth $23.016 million. The two parties have also been in discussion regarding a long term contract extension.

The Pompano Beach, Fla. native is without a doubt the top player in Louisville Football history. He set numerous records during his three year tenure with the Cardinals, finishing his collegiate career with 9,043 yards passing, 4,132 yards rushing and 119 total touchdowns. He became the school's first ever Heisman Trophy winner after accumulating 5,114 total yards and 51 total touchdowns in 2016.

You can follow Louisville Report for future coverage by liking us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram:

Facebook - @LouisvilleOnSI
Twitter - @LouisvilleOnSI
Instagram - @louisville_report

You can also follow Deputy Editor Matthew McGavic at @GeneralWasp on Twitter