The remarkable legacy of Baltimore Ravens tight end Mark Andrews continues to expand with each passing game. After a somewhat subdued beginning to the season, Andrews has been in exceptional form, amassing eight touchdowns over the last nine games. His recent performances have cemented his status as one of the franchise’s all-time greats, and his name is now etched into the Ravens’ history books yet again.
During the Ravens’ victory over the New York Giants on Sunday, Andrews secured his place in team lore by scoring a first-quarter touchdown. The 13-yard pass from quarterback Lamar Jackson marked the 48th touchdown of Andrews’ career, breaking the Ravens’ franchise record for total touchdowns, which includes both rushing and receiving. This achievement surpassed the previous record held by former Ravens running back Jamal Lewis, who tallied 47 touchdowns during his tenure from 2000 to 2006.
For Andrews, reaching this milestone is not just a personal triumph but also a reflection of the support he’s received throughout his career. Speaking after the game, Andrews expressed his gratitude: “It’s a blessing. There are so many people who have contributed along the way. I’m thankful for my teammates, the coaches, and this organization. I’m just extremely thankful and blessed. This record serves as motivation to keep improving and striving toward our goals as a team.”
The moment Andrews scored the record-breaking touchdown, his first instinct was to seek out Jackson, the quarterback responsible for most of his scoring opportunities. The duo’s chemistry has been evident since the early days of their careers, and it continues to thrive. Andrews’ relationship with Jackson is not only a cornerstone of his success but also a key factor in the Ravens’ offensive prowess.
Reflecting on the play, Andrews downplayed the record itself and instead praised Jackson’s skill. “Honestly, the record wasn’t on my mind at the time,” Andrews admitted. “What stood out to me was how perfect the pass was. Lamar led me into that touchdown with an incredible throw. When I turned around, the ball was right there over the defender. I just thought, ‘Alright, I’ll score this.’ That’s how good Lamar is. He’s been doing that consistently over the years, and he makes my job so much easier.”
The touchdown was just one of five thrown by Jackson in a stellar performance against the Giants, but it carried special significance. Jackson, who entered the NFL alongside Andrews in 2018, spoke about the bond they’ve built over the years. “Mark is one of the greatest to ever play football, in my opinion,” Jackson said. “We came into the league together, and every year, we’ve worked to improve and refine our game. That connection and commitment to growth have been the foundation of our success.”
Andrews’ record-breaking achievement highlights his value to the Ravens both on and off the field. Known for his dedication and work ethic, Andrews has been a reliable target for Jackson and a leader within the locker room. His contributions have helped the Ravens establish themselves as perennial contenders in the AFC.
As the season progresses, Andrews remains focused on continuing to elevate his game and helping the Ravens achieve their ultimate goal. “This record is great, but it’s just one step,” Andrews said. “There’s so much more to accomplish. I’m driven to keep improving, and I know this team is capable of great things.”
The partnership between Andrews and Jackson is emblematic of the Ravens’ success. Their shared journey from rookies to franchise cornerstones underscores the importance of chemistry and trust in football. With Andrews reaching new heights and Jackson leading the way, the Ravens’ future looks brighter than ever.