New offensive coordinator Declan Doyle aims to unlock Lamar Jackson's first-down play-action potential
Lamar Jackson has been highly effective throwing play-action passes on first down from under-center formations, but the Ravens have rarely used that approach. New offensive coordinator Declan Doyle, who learned under Sean Payton and Ben Johnson, is expected to feature it heavily this season. The team's emphasis on 'explosive' plays suggests a more aggressive early-down passing attack.
Doyle's background directly shapes this strategic shift. He studied under Sean Payton in New Orleans and Ben Johnson in Chicago, both coaches who prioritize first-down play-action from under center. Payton's quarterbacks, including Drew Brees and Bo Nix, consistently attempted such throws at high rates, while Johnson's Caleb Williams logged 100 attempts in just 17 games last season.
Jackson's efficiency in this specific situation is remarkable despite limited usage. He led the NFL in expected points added per dropback from under-center formations last year, yet ranks 27th in first-down play-action attempts since 2018. The Ravens' offseason emphasis on "explosive" plays, echoed by Jackson and receiver Zay Flowers, signals a deliberate commitment to finally exploiting this advantage.
This shift could meaningfully alter how defenses game-plan against Baltimore, potentially creating more scoring opportunities and longer sustained drives that change game outcomes. Fans may see a more dynamic early-down passing attack, while opposing defensive coordinators face added preparation burdens. If successful, the approach could influence other teams to reconsider their own quarterback usage patterns, though results will ultimately depend on execution and defensive adjustments throughout the season.