In the world of professional football, Pro Bowl selections are among the highest individual honors a player can receive, acknowledging their excellence and dominance in the game. For the Baltimore Ravens, 2023 was a year marked by franchise history, as two of their stars earned the coveted spot. However, what made this achievement particularly notable was the stark difference in reaction between the two players—one representing an emotional, self-assured rise to recognition, and the other, a more reserved, understated acceptance of success.
This dynamic contrast between the two Ravens stars—quarterback Lamar Jackson and linebacker Roquan Smith—perfectly encapsulates not only their personalities but also the trajectories of their careers. Lamar Jackson, the team’s star quarterback, earned his fourth Pro Bowl selection, while Roquan Smith, the dynamic linebacker acquired during the 2022 season, secured his first. For the Ravens, this juxtaposition in their responses to their selections reflects the unique storylines of both players’ careers, as well as the team’s overall growth and aspirations.
### Lamar Jackson: An Emotional Ride to Pro Bowl Glory
For Lamar Jackson, earning a fourth Pro Bowl selection wasn’t just another recognition—it was an affirmation of his ongoing journey, filled with both triumphs and struggles. Jackson, who has become one of the most electrifying quarterbacks in the NFL, has had to overcome a series of challenges throughout his career, from early doubts about his ability to be an NFL quarterback to the complexities of his contract negotiations.
Jackson’s response to earning his fourth Pro Bowl selection was emotional, and with good reason. His path to elite status has not been easy. When he was drafted by the Ravens in 2018, there were plenty of skeptics who questioned his traditional quarterbacking skills, given his unique style of play. Jackson’s ability to run the football at an elite level was seen as a novelty, but many doubted his ability to consistently deliver as a passer.
Fast forward to 2023, and Jackson is firmly entrenched as one of the top quarterbacks in the NFL. His dual-threat capabilities have turned him into a nightmare for opposing defenses, and he continues to break records while rewriting the narrative about what a modern quarterback can be. However, his fourth Pro Bowl selection also comes with a sense of vindication. Jackson’s 2023 season saw him bounce back from injuries and lead the Ravens with a renewed focus and determination. While the Ravens have a strong team with a solid defense and an improved offensive line, Jackson is still the engine that drives their success.
In the context of his career, this latest Pro Bowl selection is a testament to his resilience and evolution. Despite some obstacles—such as the early criticisms of his passing accuracy or the drama surrounding his contract extension—Jackson has continued to deliver for Baltimore. His playmaking ability, particularly in tight situations, has consistently kept the Ravens in the playoff hunt, and his individual performance has been recognized once again with a Pro Bowl nod.
Jackson’s reaction to the Pro Bowl selection reflected a sense of personal pride, not just in his performance but in the journey he has taken. His emotional connection to the honor was evident, as the recognition represents much more than just statistical achievements. For Jackson, it’s a confirmation of his belief in himself and his ability to silence doubters. As a leader of the Ravens, he continues to set a new standard for what it means to be a quarterback in today’s NFL.
### Roquan Smith: Humble, Focused, and Ready for More
In stark contrast to Lamar Jackson’s emotional response, linebacker Roquan Smith’s reaction to earning his first-ever Pro Bowl selection was humble, focused, and grounded. Unlike Jackson, who had been a widely celebrated figure since his rookie season, Smith’s path to recognition has been quieter, yet equally impressive.
Roquan Smith’s journey to the Pro Bowl wasn’t filled with the same level of dramatic storylines, but his success is no less impressive. Acquired by the Ravens from the Chicago Bears in 2022, Smith has quickly established himself as one of the league’s top linebackers. His leadership on the field, combined with his natural instincts and tackling ability, has made him a cornerstone of the Ravens’ defense.
Smith’s reaction to his first Pro Bowl selection reflected his focus on the team and what lies ahead. He was quick to credit his teammates and coaches for helping him achieve this milestone. For Smith, the recognition wasn’t just about individual success, but rather about how his performance could help elevate the entire defense and, ultimately, the team as a whole. While his accomplishment is personal, Smith’s mentality has always been about the collective effort. He emphasized that his Pro Bowl selection wouldn’t change his approach to the game, and that he would continue to work hard to help the Ravens reach their goals.
This understated humility in Smith’s response also speaks to the nature of his game. While Jackson is often in the spotlight because of his electrifying performances and highlight-reel plays, Smith’s excellence is often more subtle but just as impactful. He’s not the type of player who seeks the limelight, but his presence on the field is undeniable. Smith’s leadership, work ethic, and consistency make him one of the NFL’s best defenders, and his Pro Bowl selection validates the hard work he’s put into his craft.
### A Franchise Milestone: History and Expectations for the Ravens
The 2023 Pro Bowl selections of Lamar Jackson and Roquan Smith also represent a milestone in Baltimore Ravens franchise history. The Ravens have long been known for their defense, with players like Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, and Terrell Suggs solidifying the team’s reputation as one of the NFL’s most feared defensive units. However, the Ravens have also evolved into a more balanced team under head coach John Harbaugh, especially with Jackson at the helm of the offense.
This year’s Pro Bowl selections, in a way, embody that evolution. Jackson’s recognition underscores the Ravens’ strength on offense, as he continues to perform at an elite level. Meanwhile, Smith’s selection reflects the Ravens’ dominance on defense, as they remain one of the most physically imposing and strategic units in the league. Together, these selections speak to the well-roundedness of the team and the balanced approach that has made the Ravens one of the most dangerous teams in the NFL.
Moreover, Jackson and Smith’s Pro Bowl selections are a reminder of the franchise’s commitment to building both sides of the ball. The Ravens have been known for making smart, impactful moves in both free agency and the draft, and their selections in 2023 are just the latest chapter in the team’s storied history.
### What’s Next for Jackson and Smith?
While the Pro Bowl recognition is an individual achievement, both Jackson and Smith have bigger goals on their minds: winning a Super Bowl. For Jackson, the ultimate goal is to lead the Ravens to the league’s biggest stage and prove that he can take them to a championship. Despite his individual accolades, including an MVP award and multiple Pro Bowl nods, Jackson has yet to capture a Super Bowl ring, and that is the one thing that still eludes him.
For Smith, his focus remains on solidifying the Ravens’ defense as one of the best in the league. Smith’s first Pro Bowl selection is only a stepping stone to the bigger picture. With his work ethic and commitment to the team, it’s clear that Smith will continue to be a pivotal figure in the Ravens’ defensive strategy as they push toward a championship run.
### Conclusion
Lamar Jackson and Roquan Smith’s Pro Bowl selections may represent two very different responses, but they are both equally deserving of the honor. Jackson’s emotional reaction underscores the journey he has taken to prove himself as one of the NFL’s best quarterbacks, while Smith’s humble, team-first response speaks to his quiet but undeniable excellence on the defensive side of the ball. As the Ravens continue their pursuit of a Super Bowl title, these two players will undoubtedly play pivotal roles in the team’s success. For Baltimore fans, the future is bright with these two stars leading the way, and the hope is that this history-making season will culminate in a championship run that adds another chapter to the franchise’s rich legacy.