Ravens and Lamar Jackson Pursue Extension Amid Cap Crisis

The Baltimore Ravens are currently prioritizing a contract extension for star quarterback Lamar Jackson to address a looming financial crisis. While Jackson is already among the league's highest-paid players, his salary cap hit is projected to nearly double this upcoming season, reaching a staggering $74.5 million. Team owner Steve Bisciotti expressed a strong desire to finalize a deal quickly to ensure the team has enough financial flexibility to sign other free agents. Although the team could simply restructure his current deal, management prefers a long-term extension that secures Jackson's future while lowering his immediate cost. For his part, Jackson has voiced his commitment to staying in Baltimore and is prepared to negotiate now that the season has concluded. Ultimately, both parties aim to avoid the prolonged negotiations of the past to keep the team's championship window open.