OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Baltimore Ravens rookie quarterback Lamar Jackson wants his first jersey exchange to be with Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton after Sunday’s game.
“I need his jersey after the game. Get that to him,” Jackson said. “I’ll mancave it.”
Jackson and Newton have never met, although Newton was on the Auburn sideline as a fan and saw Jackson’s first collegiate game.
Jackson has long been a fan of Newton, watching him at Auburn and rooting for him to win the Super Bowl three seasons ago. The No. 32 overall pick this year, Jackson drew comparisons with Newton heading into the draft.
“He’s got a little bit more life in his legs than I do, a little bit more wiggle,” Newton said. “I’ll be trying to take some notes out of his book, just anybody. Not just him, a lot of other quarterbacks in this league.
“Very, very, very exceptional talent Lamar is. I’ve been watching him for a long time.”
Jackson smiled when told of Newton’s comments.
“That’s my Heisman brother,” Jackson said. “So that’s pretty cool that Cam was talking so highly of me.”
Backing up Joe Flacco this season, Jackson will likely see the field Sunday in specialty packages. Jackson has run for 103 yards on 20 carries and he’s completed 2-of-6 passes for 29 yards.
In Sunday’s 24-23 loss, Jackson scored his first career NFL touchdown. He has put the ball in his mancave, and he hopes to add to his NFL memorabilia if Newton is willing.
“As he keeps growing in this league, I know his confidence will rise,” Newton said. “And hopefully one day, he’ll have the reins to be a starter.”