Lamar Jackson believes there is still a racial bias against black quarterbacks.
Jackson was a guest on LeBron James’ show “The Shop” for an episode that was published on Friday. James said that the bias against black quarterbacks still exists.
“It’s dying off, but it’s still there,” James said.
Jackson agreed.
“It’s still there,” Jackson said. “That’s why I need that championship. That’s why I need that championship.”
For years, there was a bias preventing black players from being quarterbacks. Some coaches/organizations followed stereotypes and put athletic black players at other positions, while keeping white players at quarterback. There was even a belief that black players were not smart enough to be quarterbacks.
Over time, that bias has been shattered, with black quarterbacks proving that they can play and win at the highest levels. More opportunities have been given to black quarterbacks. Most coaches/organizations at any level of football are now just so focused on winning, that their top priority is putting the best quarterback possible at the position, regardless of skin color. But Jackson still believes a racial bias exists, which is why he wants to show he’s a Super Bowl-winning quarterback.
Interestingly, Jackson’s comments did lead him to get into it with a prominent NFL reporter.
Photo: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
