A long contract standoff between Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens is over.
On Thursday afternoon, the Ravens announced an agreement for a five-year extension. They revealed the news with a video of Jackson expressing excitement for the next chapter.
“Can’t wait to light up M&T [Stadium] for the next five years,” Jackson said. “Let’s get it.”
Fans are relieved for a resolution and eager to see Jackson keep playing in Baltimore.
“This is good for football,” a fan wrote.
This is good for football. https://t.co/CAosTcjA2v
— Matthew Lee Rosen (@MatthewLeeRosen) April 27, 2023
“About time,” another fan said.
About time https://t.co/gc5o50qWpW
— Jarrel (@_JarrelHarris) April 27, 2023
“Finally Lamar getting his due,” a fan declared.
Finally Lamar getting his due 👏 https://t.co/oyZTE9PWj0
— Raymond Coble (@Raymondcoble_) April 27, 2023
“Lamar did it his way and got what he wanted,” radio host Mark Ennis said.
Lamar did it his way and got what he wanted. https://t.co/7Ui1h0bzPM
— Mark Ennis (@MarkEnnis) April 27, 2023
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the deal is worth $255 million, narrowly exceeding Jalen Hurts’ recently signed contract to make Jackson the league’s highest-paid player.
After failing to reach an agreement last offseason, Jackson went into his 2022 contract year without any long-term stability. The Ravens utilized the non-exclusive franchise tag, granting Jackson the right to negotiate with other teams.
Baltimore could have matched any offer he signed or let him walk for two compensatory first-round picks.
The long-winding saga finally reached a conclusion hours before the NFL Draft is set to begin Thursday evening. The groundbreaking news should give the Ravens more clarity on how to use their picks to build a championship contender around the 2019 MVP.