Ravens Mull Contract Extension for Star Quarterback Lamar Jackson
OWINGS MILLS, Md. – The Baltimore Ravens have initiated internal discussions regarding a potential contract extension for their star quarterback, Lamar Jackson. Head Coach John Harbaugh confirmed the team’s considerations, signaling a proactive approach to securing jackson’s future with the franchise.
jackson’s Current Deal and Future cap Implications
Jackson, a two-time NFL MVP, inked a five-year, $260 million contract in 2023. Though, the structure of the deal was perceived by both sides as more of a three-year commitment. As the team looks ahead, the Ravens are likely aiming to finalize a new agreement with Jackson before the next offseason to mitigate a considerable $74.65 million salary cap hit in 2026.
Harbaugh Comments on Contract Negotiations
While attending the league’s annual meetings, Harbaugh acknowledged the complexities of managing the salary cap, emphasizing Jackson’s pivotal role as the franchise player. “It’s about managing the salary cap gymnastics, and Lamar is the primary element as he’s the franchise player,” Harbaugh stated. ”sooner or later, it’s something that has to be done.” Harbaugh did not specify whether negotiations had begun with Jackson, who represents himself without an agent.
Jackson’s Value: among the League’s Elite
Since signing his landmark contract, jackson has solidified his status as one of the NFL’s premier talents.He secured his second NFL MVP award in 2023 and was a strong contender for the title last season. Harbaugh didn’t hold back when assessing Jackson’s worth to the team. “His value is the highest. When Lamar gets paid, he’ll be the highest-paid player in football, like he was last time.I think every contract he signs until he decides to hang ‘em up will be a record-setting contract.” Currently,Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen holds the title of the NFL’s highest-paid player,boasting a six-year,$330 million extension.
Financial Breakdown of Jackson’s Existing Contract
Jackson’s current contract guarantees him $185 million and averages $52 million per season, placing him ninth among NFL players. His cap hit for the current season is $43.65 million, but it is indeed set to surge by $31 million in 2026. The Ravens’ urgency to negotiate a new deal stems from the desire to create cap space before the upcoming free agency period.It’s worth noting that reaching an agreement with Jackson previously involved arduous negotiations spanning 27 months.
Jackson’s Record-Breaking Performance
The 28-year-old Jackson is coming off a career-best season, achieving new personal bests with 4,172 passing yards and 41 total touchdowns. Jackson became the first player in NFL history to amass over 4,000 passing yards and 900 rushing yards in the same season.
playoff Performance Under Scrutiny
Despite his regular-season accolades,Jackson’s playoff record remains a point of scrutiny. He holds a 3-5 record in the playoffs and has yet to reach the Super Bowl. Since his entry into the league in 2018, his 11 playoff turnovers are the highest among all NFL players.
Jackson’s Drive for Improvement
Harbaugh emphasized Jackson’s relentless pursuit of improvement.”That’s what I love about Lamar Jackson: he always wants to improve,” Harbaugh stated. “He’s never satisfied. He talks about winning the Super Bowl. And when he wins the Super Bowl,he still won’t be satisfied. He’ll want to win another one. That’s just the way he is as an athlete.”
What factors beyond just performance are influencing the Ravens’ decision to discuss an extension *now*,considering Jackson’s current contract length?
Ravens Mull Contract Extension for star Quarterback lamar Jackson – Q&A
Here’s a breakdown of the key questions surrounding Lamar Jackson’s contract situation with the Baltimore Ravens:
Q&A
Q: why are the Ravens considering a new contract for Lamar Jackson,even though he just signed one?
A: While Jackson’s current contract is a 5-year deal,its structure makes it feel more like a 3-year commitment.The Ravens want to proactively manage their salary cap, especially with a significant cap hit looming in 2026, and reward Jackson for his performance.
Q: What are the financial implications of Jackson’s current contract?
A: Jackson’s contract is valued at $260 million over five years, with $185 million guaranteed. He currently averages $52 million per season,placing him ninth in the NFL. His cap hit for the upcoming season is $43.65 million, but it is indeed projected to increase by another $31 million in 2026, which would potentially put the Ravens in financial constraints.
Q: How valuable is Lamar Jackson to the Ravens?
A: Jackson is considered the franchise player and one of the NFL’s elite. Coach Harbaugh believes Jackson’s worth makes him the highest-paid player every contract he signs.
Q: What are Jackson’s playoff stats?
A: Jackson has a 3-5 playoff record but has yet to reach the Super Bowl. He also has the most playoff turnovers of any NFL player since 2018 (11 turnovers).
Q: How has Lamar Jackson performed recently?
A: Jackson is coming off a career-best season, with 4,172 passing yards and 41 total touchdowns. he became the first player in NFL history to pass for over 4,000 yards and rush for over 900 yards in a single season.
Q: What is the biggest challenge for Lamar Jackson?
A: Winning a Super Bowl is a big challenge for Jackson. His lack of success in playoffs is a point of scrutiny.
Q: Who is the highest-paid player in the NFL?
A: Currently, Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills holds the title with a six-year, $330 million deal.
Q: Does Lamar Jackson have an agent?
A: No,Lamar Jackson represents himself in contract negotiations.
Q: What is the current status of contract negotiations?
A: Coach Harbaugh confirmed the team is considering a contract extension, but he did not specify whether negotiations have begun.
Q: What’s the key takeaway?
A: The Ravens are proactively working to secure Lamar Jackson’s future, showing their commitment to their star quarterback and their desire to maintain a competitive roster.
