New NFL Rumors on Lamar Jackson, Ravens' Relationship Amid Contract Extension Talks

Even though Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens did not work out a contract extension in the offseason, there doesn't appear to be any drama between the two sides like there was the last time they were negotiating a long-term deal.

Per The Athletic's Jonathan Jones , the relationship between Jackson and the Ravens is the "healthiest it's been" with both parties having "every intention of continuing their work together for years to come."

Jackson is under contract through the 2027 season, so the Ravens have some wiggle room to get a new deal done.

Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta told reporters on Sept. 2 that he is "optimistic" they will work things out with Jackson before the start of free agency next offseason.

One reason for March to serve as an unofficial deadline is because Jackson is currently set to count $84.3 million against the 2027 cap.

Another reason for the Ravens to get a deal done sooner than later is Jackson is in a unique position of leverage over the organization. He negotiated a no-tag clause in the five-year, $260 million deal he signed in April 2023.

If Jackson plays out his current deal, the Ravens can't use the franchise tag to prevent him from becoming a free agent. He will be entering his age-31 season going in 2028, so a historic contract wouldn't be out of the question at that point.

It would also benefit the Ravens to get an extension done now rather than waiting because the top of the quarterback market is only going to go up. Patrick Mahomes and Dak Prescott are currently the only players making at least $60 million annually.

Of the 13 quarterbacks currently making at least $50 million per season, Jackson's contract is the only one set to expire before 2028.

The last time Jackson and the Ravens attempted to negotiate a long-term deal, things got contentious to the point that he publicly requested a trade because they "have not been interested in meeting my value" after they used the franchise tag on him.

Things eventually worked out between the two sides. Jackson won an MVP award in 2023 and finished second in 2024.

The Ravens have made the playoffs six times in eight seasons with Jackson as their starting quarterback.