Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen rise above the dirty media’s racial narratives

Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen, two of the NFL’s most electrifying quarterbacks, have consistently shown respect and admiration for one another. Despite the media’s attempts to pit them against each other along racial lines, these athletes have chosen to focus on the game, their shared respect, and their desire to succeed. Their actions serve as a reminder that sports can transcend the divisive narratives perpetuated by some in the media.

Mutual Respect Shines Despite Media Narratives

Following the Buffalo Bills’ win over the Baltimore Ravens, Jackson and Allen exchanged heartfelt respect on the field, showcasing their bond as competitors. “I got so much respect and love for [Lamar Jackson],” Allen said in a postgame interview. Similarly, Jackson told reporters, “Great players recognize greatness, and we both recognize each other. I told him, ‘Man, go get something. Go win something. MVP or Super Bowl.'”

This mutual respect was no surprise to those who have closely followed both quarterbacks since their selection in the 2018 NFL Draft. However, the media continues to frame their relationship as part of a larger racial narrative, often detracting from their achievements on the field. Despite these external pressures, Allen and Jackson have consistently rejected such divisive labels and remain focused on their craft.

Media’s Role in Fueling Division

The national media has frequently used race as a lens to analyze the careers of Jackson and Allen, creating unnecessary divisions among fans. A recent article from ESPN’s race-focused vertical accused fans of supporting Allen or Jackson based on racial biases. The piece claimed that Black fans favor Jackson because of his struggle against racial stereotypes, while White fans supposedly support Allen as a symbol of resilience against cancel culture.

Such narratives often rely on conjecture rather than evidence, as seen in the lack of substantiation provided for these claims. Commentators like Jemele Hill and David Dennis Jr. have also amplified the idea that Jackson represents a “blacker” version of a quarterback, citing his cultural style, such as his platinum grills and Southern Florida accent. This framing reduces Jackson’s identity to superficial traits rather than celebrating his excellence as an athlete.

Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen Reject Their “Casting”

Both Jackson and Allen have actively distanced themselves from these divisive narratives. Jackson has never publicly aligned himself with the race-based framing of his career, choosing instead to let his performance speak for itself. Similarly, Allen has focused on improving as a player and leading his team to success.

Their ability to rise above the noise was evident during their postgame exchange. Neither player leaned into the media’s attempts to portray them as opposing symbols of a “race war.” Instead, their actions reaffirmed their mutual respect and shared goal of excelling in their sport.

As former ESPN writer Steve Kim noted, “Lamar Jackson just wants to play ball.” This sentiment highlights the players’ commitment to football and their unwillingness to engage with narratives that distract from the game.

Conclusion

The narratives surrounding Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen are a reflection of the broader tendency in sports media to frame competition through divisive lenses. While the media may seek to create storylines that drive clicks and engagement, the actions of Jackson and Allen offer a powerful counterpoint. Both players have chosen to focus on their craft, rejecting the labels and divisions placed upon them.

As fans, it is essential to recognize and celebrate their greatness without falling into the trap of divisive narratives. Jackson and Allen exemplify what makes football special: passion, talent, and respect for one another. By focusing on their on-field accomplishments and mutual admiration, we can resist the “race war” narratives that distract from the essence of the sport.

In the words of OutKick founder Clay Travis, “Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson are better than all of the racebaiting media who cover them and try to divide sports fans with petty racial drama.” Their greatness lies not just in their athletic abilities but in their ability to rise above the noise, reminding us that the true essence of sports lies in unity and excellence.