Ravens Signing Lamar Would Solve Cowboys-Sized Problem

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson deserves every penny available to him, but with his current contract, that will be a tricky situation to navigate for the front office in the coming years.

Jackson’s current five-year, $260 million deal he signed in 2023 has him representing $43.5 million of the Baltimore cap in the 2025 season … but that number will grow exponentially.

In the 2026 and 2027 seasons (the final two years of his contract), Jackson’s total cap hit will reach an absurd $74.5 million, which will account for more than 20% of the Ravens budget those seasons.

How to make that more affordable?

Sign Jackson to an extension this season so his contract terms aren’t so back-loaded.

If this happens, Jackson’s contract will be more affordable for the longterm, while also making him the highest-paid player in NFL by annual salary. Dallas Cowboys QB Dak Prescott currently holds that position with his $60 million a year.

Lucky for Baltimore, this idea for Jackson isn’t unheard of. According to head coach John Harbaugh, conversations have been had about getting it done.

“There’s been conversations about that internally, I know,” Harbaugh said at the annual league meetings in Florida earlier this offseason.

“How far along that is or whatever, I don’t know. I definitely think it’s an obvious point … that’s going to continue to have to be addressed, really with all those guys (eligible for an extension).

“You just kinda manage that dance, the salary cap dance, and Lamar is the main part of that because he’s the franchise player. That’s a possibility, I think. Sooner or later, definitely is gonna have to happen.”

The Ravens have plenty of time to get something signed with Jackson, who represents himself financially. The fact that the front office is already in discussion tells us they recognize the steep problem Jackson’s current deal could lead to without an extension.

Harbaugh – and just about the rest of the league – recognize Jackson’s worth. With two league MVP awards, and a close second finish last season, there is no question who can surpass Prescott’s total next.

“The value is the top. When Lamar gets paid, he’s going to be the highest-paid player in football, just like he was last time. I think every contract he signs probably until he decides to hang up his cleats, he’s going to be that guy,” Harbaugh said.

The question is … when?

Ravens Signing Lamar Would Solve Cowboys-Sized Problem

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