When a franchise brings in a new head coach, it’s never just about swapping out one voice for another. It’s about fresh ideas, new priorities and a different vision for where the team is headed. That’s especially true when the team in question is the Baltimore Ravens and when the player at the center of it all is Lamar Jackson.
With Jesse Minter stepping in ahead of the 2026 season, the questions are already swirling. How much will change? What stays the same? And most importantly, what does this mean for one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the league? Minter hasn’t laid all his cards on the table just yet, but he’s dropped enough hints to make things very interesting.
Advertisement
Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson (97) sacks Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson.Peter Casey-Imagn Images
(Peter Casey-Imagn Images)
While speaking to Rich Eisen, Minter spoke about how he wants to reduce the chances of Jackson getting injured by reducing the need for him to make runs.
“I don’t know that he needs to run more,” Minter said. “I actually think there’s times where he can run less if you build an offense that takes advantage of the under center, the downhill run game. Now that opens up a lot of boots and play actions. … I think there’s high-leverage moments where the quarterback’s willing to do what he needs to do to win the game… This is a franchise player… There’s a health element and a protection element that needs to be in place to where he’s not taking some of the hits that he doesn’t need to.”
Advertisement
While Minter might have some plans for Jackson, a bigger issue to be addressed by the team right now is Jackson’s contract. The Baltimore Ravens are staring at a $74.5 million cap hit tied to their star quarterback for the upcoming season the second-largest figure in the league. That number alone makes this situation impossible to ignore.
General manager Eric DeCosta struck an optimistic tone, expressing confidence that a new deal can be worked out with the 29-year-old, two-time MVP. Jackson still has 2 years left on his current contract, but an extension could lower his 2026 cap figure by roughly $30 million and provide stability for another 3 to 4 seasons.
Advertisement
If no agreement is reached before the new league year begins on March 11, the team could restructure his $51.2 million salary, though that would push more financial weight into 2027.
Baltimore is also working on a new deal for 25-year-old center Tyler Linderbaum, aiming to lock down its core.
Related: Ravens’ GM Shares Lamar Jackson Contract Update After NFL Season
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Feb 25, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.