After eight years in Baltimore, could Lamar Jackson have come to the end of the road? The 28-year-old quarterback is reported to be negotiating a new deal with the Ravens. Jackson is two years into the five-year, $260 million contract he signed in April 2023, but there have been no new developments. And this week, a damning report by a local newspaper suggested that the franchise is not entirely happy with the player, and could even be resigned to let him go.

Baltimore Sun journalist Mike Preston alleges that Jackson fell asleep in a team meeting, regularly stays up late playing video games, and has basically become a law unto himself within the team. How much truth there is in those claims is anyone’s guess but Preston goes on to reveal that both the back office and coach John Harbaugh are losing patience with the two-time MVP.

New contract extension up in the air

Preston believes that the Ravens and Jackson are now “at a crossroads” and stated his argument as to why the franchise should not hand the QB an extension. “I wouldn’t offer him another contract, not with the injuries he has suffered this season. In fact, I’d ask him for a rebate like former great Tom Brady did with the New England Patriots,” Preston wrote, before adding that Jackson, who grew up in Pompano Beach, Florida “would love to play for the Dolphins”.

As it happens, the Dolphins are still searching for their new franchise quarterback although landing Jackson might be beyond their budget.

And in the wake of Preston’s article, Harbaugh has stressed that he has no issues with Jackson. I’m pretty transparent with all the guys,” the coach explained in his press briefing this week. “I had a great conversation with him this morning about a few things. Football, how he’s feeling, things like that. So our relationship is A-plus. I love him. Always have, always will. He’s fighting like crazy to get back.”

Jackson out with a back injury

Jackson, who has thrown for 2,311 yards with 18 touchdowns and six interceptions this season, picked up a knock in last week’s defeat to the Patriots. He did not participate in practice last week and is listed as doubtful for tonight’s game against the Packers.

Mathematically, the Ravens (7-8) could still secure the last Wild Card slot in the AFC although the chances of making the playoffs remain slim. Failing to reach the postseason (for the first time in 2017) could even have repercussions – with Jackson and Harbaugh both in the firing line.

Related stories

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.