OWINGS MILLS — Lamar Jackson has been in attendance at Baltimore Ravens organized team activities (OTAs) as the franchise begins a new era under head coach Jesse Minter. Jackson commented on the team’s revamped coaching staff following the firing of longtime head coach John Harbaugh after last season.

He said he was “shocked” by Harbaugh’s dismissal but expressed confidence in team owner Steve Bisciotti’s decision-making. “Hats off to Coach Harbaugh because he did so much for the city, for the team and for this organization. So, hats off to him in New York. We built a lot. We did a lot here.”

The Ravens have hired Minter, formerly the defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers, as their new head coach. Declan Doyle, 30, has been named the team’s new offensive coordinator. Jackson acknowledged the youth of the new staff, noting Doyle is only one year older than he is, but emphasized respect for their roles.

Jackson described the changes as invigorating. “I would say yes because new coach, new OC, new guys in positions. Everything is just new, basically, besides upstairs right now. Coaching staff is new. I'd just say it's a breath of fresh air because everything is just new.”

The quarterback also reaffirmed his connection to the Ravens and the city of Baltimore. “I love the Ravens. I love this organization. I love this city. This is the team that drafted me, so (this city has) a lot of love for me — I believe — and I have a lot of love for the city and this team, as well.”

Jackson’s presence at OTAs follows an offseason in which he requested a trade before ultimately returning to the team. The Ravens restructured his contract ahead of free agency but did not finalize a new long-term deal. He declined to elaborate on negotiations, saying, “I just want to keep those conversations private. We restructured the deal, and that’s what we have right now.”

Jackson, who has two seasons remaining on the five-year contract signed before the 2023 season, also praised Minter’s demeanor.