Polian: 'I was wrong' to suggest Lamar should move to WR

Hall of Famer Bill Polian was skeptical about Lamar Jackson's ability to succeed as an NFL quarterback prior to the 2018 draft, even saying the Heisman winner should switch to wide receiver due to his athleticism.

But on Tuesday, with the Baltimore Ravens pivot firmly in the MVP conversation after dismantling the New England Patriots on Sunday night, the former general manager admitted he missed the mark on Jackson.

"I was wrong, because I used the old, traditional quarterback standard with him, which is clearly why (Ravens head coach) John Harbaugh and (former general manager) Ozzie Newsome were more prescient than I was," Polian told USA TODAY Sports's Jarrell Bell.

"And (offensive coordinator) Greg (Roman) found a way in how he's developed a system to use those dynamic skills," Polian added. "Bottom line, I was wrong."

The AFC North-leading Ravens are reaping the benefits of transforming their offense to maximize Jackson's rare talents, with the second-year passer recording three 100-plus-yard rushing games in eight contests this season.

Jackson ripped apart the Patriots' defense - a unit that entered Week 9 as the NFL's best - while scoring two rushing touchdowns and tacking on another through the air during the 37-20 win. He went 17-of-23 passing for 163 yards, adding 61 yards on the ground.

Polian's criticisms of Jackson were centered around his size and accuracy issues. He also said the former Louisville standout wasn't on the same passing level as the four quarterbacks taken before him in the draft (Baker Mayfield, Sam Darnold, Josh Allen, and Josh Rosen).

While the former Indianapolis Colts and Buffalo Bills executive maintained his initial comments were misconstrued, Polian recognized he was evaluating Jackson with an out-of-date mindset.

"The definition has changed, no question," Polian said. "What he's doing is amazing."

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