Back in 2019, Doug Flutie watched Lamar Jackson tear through defenses and couldn’t help but imagine what could have been.
The former Heisman winner and NFL journeyman saw Jackson’s dual-threat dominance and felt disappointed he didn’t get a chance to play in that era.
“Man, that could’ve been me.” Flutie admitted to TMZ Sports.
“I just wish I could play in the NFL today with these spread offenses, quarterback runs, and all that. It’d be a blast.”
Fast forward to 2025, and Jackson himself is acknowledging Flutie’s impact.
Jackson took to Twitter, sharing a highlight reel of Flutie’s 1998 season with the Buffalo Bills.
The NFL Films account joined in, sharing a clip of Flutie’s electric season, and Flutie responded with a simple yet meaningful message.
“Appreciate the love @Lj_era8!”
This exchange highlights the mutual respect between two quarterbacks who, though from different eras, share a bond in their dual-threat style of play.
Flutie’s style didn’t blend with the style of the era
Flutie’s career wasn’t without its challenges. At 5’10”, he was often told he wasn’t built for the NFL. But in 1998, Flutie defied those doubts.
He won NFL Comeback Player of the Year, led the Bills to a 10-6 record, and earned a Pro Bowl selection. His success that season is still remembered fondly by Bills fans, despite a controversial decision to start Rob Johnson over Flutie during the playoffs. Nevertheless, Flutie’s legacy as one of the most exciting and underrated quarterbacks of his time was sealed.
Jackson, now one of the NFL’s most prominent quarterbacks, sees himself as a continuation of Flutie’s legacy. He understands the struggles of being an undersized, mobile quarterback and appreciates the barriers Flutie broke down.
In turn, Flutie respects Jackson’s talent and ability to silence critics, recognizing that Lamar is doing today what he was trying to do decades ago-prove the value of the undersized, mobile QB.
As the 2025 season draws near, the question isn’t just whether Lamar Jackson can lead the Ravens to a Super Bowl, but whether this unprecedented collaboration between quarterback and front office will prove to be the key to success. One thing is certain: Jackson isn’t just playing for Baltimore-he’s helping to build the future of the franchise.
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