Ravens breathe easier after Lamar Jackson’s arrival, but bigger issue remains
The Baltimore Ravens are moving in the right direction as star quarterback Lamar Jackson reported to the start of the team’s offseason workouts on Monday.
There had been lingering questions about whether Jackson would show up for the team’s offseason program, as new head coach Jesse Minter said at the NFL’s annual meetings in Phoenix last week that there was uncertainty about the two-time league MVP’s participation.
Jackson erased all that doubt with his arrival at the team’s practice facility on Monday, as he appears to be on board with the change of direction with the franchise.
However, there remains concern over his long-term future as he’s in the fourth year of his five-year, $260 million deal. Jackson hasn’t exactly quieted the flames of uncertainty, but his showing up to voluntary workouts should provide optimism that a new deal can get worked out before next season.
The clock is ticking on Baltimore as the star quarterback’s current contract features a no-franchise tag clause that would allow him to test the open market in 2028. He remains one of the league’s best offensive talents and top-tier quarterbacks, who is in the prime of his career.
Want $250 to bet on the NFL?
Jackson is the franchise cornerstone of the offense that the Ravens have been committed to building the team around. Last season was a step back, but having Jackson healthy and under a new long-term contract could set the table for a bounce-back 2026 campaign.
So with Jackson showing up to offseason workouts, the ball is in the Ravens’ court to get a new deal worked out.
