In a touching display of cross-sport camaraderie, Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson reached out to Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum with a heartfelt gesture as the NBA forward begins his long road to recovery from a torn Achilles.
Baltimore Ravens QB Lamar Jackson Sends Words of Encouragement to Boston Celtics All-Star Jayson Tatum
Tatum, who suffered the devastating injury during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks, shared a photo on his Instagram story featuring a signed jersey from the Ravens quarterback.
Along with signing the jersey, Jackson wrote Tatum a personalized message, wishing him a speedy recovery during his rehabilitation process.
“Wishing you 100% recovery, champ,” Jackson scribbled on the signed jersey.
The injury abruptly ended Tatum’s 2024-25 season, sinking the Celtics’ bid for a second consecutive NBA championship. The Knicks eventually defeated the Celtics in six games.
Achilles injuries of this severity typically take eight to 10 months to recover from, meaning Tatum’s absence is expected to extend well into the 2025-26 season. Even when he returns, it may take time for him to regain his previous form.
Jackson Hopes to Silence Critics in 2025
Jackson is no stranger to adversity. From critics suggesting he change positions leading up to the 2018 NFL Draft to scrutiny for his postseason shortcomings, Jackson has been doubted throughout his entire career.
The two-time NFL MVP also understands what it feels like to sit on the sidelines, feeling helpless while recuperating from injuries. He has dealt with several injuries in his career, including a knee sprain that limited him to 12 games in 2022.
That injury forced him out of the Ravens’ stretch run, including crucial games that shaped their playoff hopes. Like Tatum now, Jackson had to watch from afar, wrestle with frustration, and stay mentally locked in while rehabbing.
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This shared experience may explain why Jackson reached out to the six-time NBA All-Star. He understands the grueling journey that lies ahead for Tatum. In a sports world dominated by rivalries and competitive banter, Jackson’s message to Tatum shows the brotherhood that exists between athletes.
In the short term, Jackson and the Ravens are going “all-in” on winning Super Bowl LX, which is scheduled to be played Feb. 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
The Ravens are returning most starters from last season’s 12-5 team and have added several key pieces, including wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, cornerback Jaire Alexander, and rookie safety Malaki Starks, to an already stacked roster.