The Baltimore Ravens remain optimistic that quarterback Lamar Jackson will sign a contract extension, keeping the two-time NFL MVP in Baltimore beyond the 2027 season while easing the team’s salary-cap concerns.
Jackson currently carries a staggering $73.5 million cap hit, prompting the Ravens to pursue an extension that would provide more flexibility as they enter free agency and trade season.
General manager Eric DeCosta told reporters at the NFL Combine that the team is “very confident” in Jackson’s willingness to commit long-term.
“Lamar and I have an agreement,” DeCosta said. “We handle business kind of in-house internally. That worked well for us last time and we will continue to have that policy moving forward. Have spoken to Lamar about a lot of different things over the last month. He’s been very engaged. He was a big value to us in the coaching search, but we’ll continue those conversations moving forward.”
Ravens looking for salary cap flexibility
Timing is key for the Ravens, as finalizing an extension within the next two weeks would open additional salary-cap space ahead of the team’s offseason moves. If an agreement isn’t reached immediately, the team can restructure Jackson’s contract by converting portions of his salary into a signing bonus without needing his consent.
Jackson, who negotiates his own deals without an agent, signed a five-year, $260 million extension in April 2023. This offseason presents a new challenge for the quarterback, as Baltimore welcomes head coach Jesse Minter and offensive coordinator Declan Doyle, who replaced Todd Monken following John Harbaugh’s departure.
DeCosta emphasized that Jackson’s participation in voluntary offseason programs is up to him.
“Those are voluntary. Lamar is a two-time MVP. I think he knows what it takes to get ready for the grind of the NFL season. He’s proven he can do it at a very, very high level and I have no preference.”
With Jackson engaged in discussions and a new coaching staff in place, the Ravens are confident that the quarterback’s future in Baltimore is secure, setting the stage for continued success in the seasons to come.
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