From Tragedy to Hero: Lamar Jackson’s Adoption Journey

In a world often filled with stories of heartbreak, Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson has emerged as a beacon of hope and compassion. The two-time NFL MVP, known for his electrifying plays on the field, made headlines in early 2025 for a deeply personal and heroic decision that shocked the nation. After a newborn baby boy was tragically abandoned in a bag tied to a tree branch in Chandigarh’s Maloya village, Jackson stepped in to change the course of the child’s life. He decided to adopt the infant, committing to raise him until adulthood, or until the boy chooses to live independently—a decision that has inspired countless people around the globe.

The story began on a cold morning in February 2025, when passersby in Maloya village heard the cries of a newborn and discovered the baby abandoned in a precarious situation. The infant was immediately taken to a local hospital, GMSH-16, where he was stabilized. The incident, one of several abandonments reported in the area over the past six months, caught the attention of international media due to the heartbreaking circumstances. It was during this time that Jackson, who has always been private about his personal life, learned of the child’s plight through a news report while on a bye week with the Ravens. The quarterback, already a father to his daughter Milan, born in 2021, felt an immediate connection to the child’s story. Having grown up with his mother Felicia Jones as a single parent after losing his father and grandmother at the age of 8, Jackson understood the importance of a loving, stable home.

Moved by the infant’s story, Jackson made the life-changing decision to adopt the baby boy, whom he named Ethan. The process was not a simple one, especially given the international nature of the adoption. Jackson had to navigate the rigorous legal requirements outlined by the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) in India, which oversees adoptions under the Juvenile Justice Act of 2015. This involved registering with CARA, undergoing a detailed home study, and complying with both Indian and U.S. adoption laws. The Child Adoption Committee in Chandigarh played a crucial role in ensuring that Jackson and his family were prepared for the responsibilities of raising Ethan. Despite his demanding schedule as a professional athlete, Jackson worked tirelessly with adoption professionals, completing all necessary paperwork, background checks, and evaluations to ensure Ethan could legally become part of his family.

Throughout the adoption process, Jackson demonstrated an unwavering commitment to Ethan’s future. He publicly pledged to raise the child until adulthood, promising to provide him with the love, support, and opportunities he might never have had otherwise. “I know what it’s like to face challenges early in life,” Jackson said in a rare statement about his personal life. “Ethan deserves a chance to grow up knowing he’s loved and supported, and I’m going to be there for him every step of the way—until he’s ready to stand on his own.” This promise resonated deeply with fans and the public, showcasing a side of the NFL star that few had seen before.

The adoption was finalized in a Chandigarh court in April 2025, just days before Jackson’s latest statement to the press. The courtroom, filled with Jackson’s legal team and local officials, was a scene of quiet celebration as the judge declared Ethan legally a part of Jackson’s family. The quarterback’s dedication to Ethan extended beyond the legal proceedings. He ensured that Ethan’s transition to life in the U.S. was as smooth as possible, setting up a nursery in his Baltimore home and arranging for medical checkups to monitor the infant’s health after his traumatic start to life.

Jackson’s decision to adopt Ethan has not only transformed the life of one child but has also sparked a broader conversation about adoption and the responsibilities of those in the public eye. His actions have inspired many to consider adoption, particularly for children in vulnerable situations. By taking on the role of a father to Ethan while continuing to excel in his career—leading the Ravens to the AFC Championship in 2023—Jackson has shown that heroism extends far beyond the football field. His commitment to raising Ethan until he chooses independence is a testament to the power of compassion, proving that even in the face of tragedy, one person can make a profound difference.