Lamar Jackson does not appear close to a new deal with the Baltimore Ravens despite heading into the final year of his rookie contract. Speculation suggests that might be by design.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport said Thursday that Jackson does not appear to be in any rush to negotiate a new contract. Rapoport speculated that Jackson might actually be willing to play out his current contract to maximize his negotiating leverage.
Could #Ravens QB Lamar Jackson play out his contract all the way? It is a discussion worth having. pic.twitter.com/7iQAxNBObH
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 3, 2022
Jackson would be mimicking Kirk Cousins and Dak Prescott with such a strategy. Prescott was tagged twice before signing a long-term megadeal with Dallas, while Cousins hit free agency and signed a fully-guaranteed contract with Minnesota.
Jackson might just not be eager to negotiate right now for whatever reason. The Ravens have made clear that they are ready, and even sound a little frustrated with the pace Jackson is taking. Ultimately, the ball is in the quarterback’s court, and he is clearly content to take his time right now.
Photo: Sep 13, 2021; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) reacts against the Las Vegas Raiders during Monday Night Football at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
