Lamar Jackson returned to Owings Mills, Maryland, this week to commence offseason work with the only team he's ever known in his NFL career.
This time around, he has a new coach to learn. Jesse Minter took over for the fired John Harbaugh in January, embarking on a new era after Harbaugh's 18-year tenure came to an end following Baltimore's season-ending loss to Pittsburgh in Week 18.
According to Jackson, Minter delivers a good first impression.
"Man, cool dude. Always has a smile on his face," Jackson said of Minter on Wednesday following the Ravens' organized team activity session. "I just told him on the field today, 'Every time I come in the building, you always smiling.' … That's great to have."
Positivity is nice in any work environment, but the Ravens understand they have plenty of work to accomplish. It's why Jackson has embraced the offseason process, which he undoubtedly needs as he learns the new coaching staff prior to the start of the 2026 season.
"It's different. Different and new," Jackson said. "Feel like everything is new right now. But it's cool. Atmosphere is smooth. Just looking forward to the season."
Jackson was asked on Wednesday if all of the changes this offseason were "refreshing" or "energizing"?
"I would say 'yes' because new coach, new [offensive coordinator], new guys in positions," Jackson said. "Everything is just new, basically, besides upstairs right now. Coaching staff is new. I'd just say it's a breath of fresh air because everything is just new."
While a "breath of fresh air" is always appreciated, it usually only accompanies the departure of a previous leader. In Baltimore, such a change is not normal. Since they moved from Cleveland and became the Ravens in 1996, Baltimore has only been coached by three individuals: Ted Marchibroda (1996-98), Brian Billick (1999-2007) and Harbaugh (2008-2026).
Such consistency has allowed the Ravens to establish and cultivate a culture. But the departure of Harbaugh likely caused some mixed emotions for Jackson, the quarterback in whom Harbaugh believed enough to spend the No. 32 overall pick on him in the 2018 draft.
"I was shocked," Jackson said of Harbaugh's firing. "I hope coach is having a great, great time in New York. Hats off to coach because he did so much for the city, for the team, for the organization. Hats off to him in New York."
Nothing is forever in the NFL. Baltimore is hoping more change isn't coming at quarterback, a position group headlined by Jackson, whose contract expires after the 2027 season.
As was the case in 2022 and 2023, contract talks involving Jackson will soon dominate headlines in Charm City. There isn't yet reason for Ravens fans to worry whether Jackson might leave for a new home, but the sooner an extension is completed, the better.
Jackson did his best to assuage their fears Wednesday.
"Absolutely. I love the Ravens," Jackson said when asked if he wanted to remain in Baltimore. "I love this organization. I love this city. This is the team that drafted me. Got a lot of love for me. I've got a lot of love for the city and this team as well. Like I told you, the reconstruction is done. Cool with that. But I love Baltimore. Everybody should know that by now."
Everyone should know that. But until pen is put to paper, the questions will continue, especially with a new coaching staff now in charge.
