Lamar Jackson’s rise to becoming an NFL superstar as the Baltimore Ravens’ quarterback is a testament to both his immense talent and the unwavering support from his family, with his mother, Felicia Jones, standing at the heart of this journey. Known for his remarkable speed, agility, and cannon of an arm, Jackson’s path to the NFL wasn’t just paved by his skills but also by the deep familial bonds that shaped him.
Born on January 7, 1997, in Pompano Beach, Florida, Jackson grew up in a family that breathed sports. His father, Lamar Jackson Sr., was deeply involved in their community, coaching young athletes and sparking his son’s early passion for the game. Tragedy struck when Jackson was just eight years old, as both his father and grandmother passed away on the same day, leaving a void but also marking the start of his mother’s incredible influence in his life.
Felicia Jones emerged as the pillar of strength for young Lamar, embodying resilience and fortitude. “It hurt me.
I wanted to cry real bad, but my mom was the real soldier,” Jackson recalls, underscoring the powerful role his mother played. His reference to her as “the real soldier” is a vivid testament to her unwavering determination to see him succeed.
Throughout his journey, Felicia has been much more than just a supportive presence on the sidelines. She’s been the architect behind the scenes, guiding him through pivotal moments in his career.
Jackson often describes himself as a “mama’s boy,” with good reason. Her influence reached a pinnacle when she took on the mantle of his manager, helping him negotiate a monumental five-year, $260 million contract with the Ravens—without the aid of an agent.
To honor her sacrifices, Jackson dedicated his first NFL paycheck to buying her a new home.
But Felicia’s support didn’t stop at her son alone; she extended her commitment to the community. From the time Jackson was a child, Felicia organized football training sessions for local youth, becoming a beacon of inspiration far beyond her household. Her lasting impact on the community resonated with a dedication comparable only to her devotion to her family.
Even though Lamar Sr. is no longer present, his influence remains deeply embedded in Jackson’s ethos. The strong work ethic and passion for football that his father instilled in him continue to light his path.
“Whenever you need someone to lean back on or to talk to, she’s there,” Jackson often shares about his mother’s enduring support. The lessons he learned from watching her face life’s adversities head-on have taught him that if she can handle life’s storms with grace and courage, he too can overcome any obstacle.
Lamar Jackson’s achievements are not just his own but are a direct reflection of the love, strength, and dedication shown by his family, with Felicia Jones at the core as his “superhero.” Through her example, he learned that perseverance and family love could propel him beyond any hurdle life throws his way.