The Baltimore Ravens are gearing up for a pivotal offseason, and owner Steve Bisciotti has made it clear that securing a new deal for star quarterback Lamar Jackson is a top priority. With the start of free agency looming in March, Bisciotti is eager to finalize an agreement that would significantly reduce Jackson's hefty $74.5 million cap number, which currently accounts for 25% of the team's salary cap.
Bisciotti emphasized the importance of resolving Jackson's contract situation promptly, citing the need to address other free agents and build a competitive roster. "The urgency of that matters to me because we've got free agents and I don't want to go into free agency with that hanging over our head," he explained. By settling Jackson's deal, the Ravens can focus on other key signings and create a more balanced roster. Bisciotti has made it clear that he wants to avoid a repeat of the prolonged negotiations that occurred during Jackson's last contract extension.
Jackson, 29, is currently under contract for three more years, but his cap number is set to increase by $31 million in 2026. This significant jump would not only impact the team's salary cap but also limit their ability to make other crucial signings. Bisciotti is hopeful that Jackson will be willing to work with General Manager Eric DeCosta to find a solution that benefits both the player and the team. As Bisciotti noted, "I think that he's amenable to doing something that mirrors the last deal he did, although the annual number will be a little higher."
We want another window, and Lamar knows that. I think that he's amenable to doing something that mirrors the last deal he did, although the annual number will be a little higher. But I'm hoping that it's plug a new number in the same contract he signed last year and move on.
If the Ravens and Jackson are unable to reach a new agreement, the team may be forced to explore alternative options to manage his cap hit. One possible solution would be to spread the cap hit over void years, but this approach would push the financial burden into future seasons. Bisciotti has expressed his reluctance to adopt this strategy, as it could compromise the team's long-term financial flexibility. Instead, he is pushing for a more sustainable solution that would allow the Ravens to maintain a competitive roster while also ensuring Jackson's compensation is more manageable.
The key to a successful negotiation will be finding a balance between Jackson's desire for a significant contract and the team's need to manage their salary cap. As Bisciotti acknowledged, "I care about my players very much, but I can't give them power." This delicate balance will require careful consideration and creative problem-solving from both parties.
As the Ravens embark on their search for a new head coach, Jackson has been invited to participate in the interview process. While Bisciotti has made it clear that Jackson will have a lot of say in the decision, he also emphasized that the ultimate power rests with him. This approach reflects the team's desire to engage with their star player while maintaining a clear chain of command.
In the coming weeks, the Ravens will be closely watched as they navigate the complex world of NFL contract negotiations. With the start of free agency looming, Bisciotti's deadline for a new deal with Jackson will be a major storyline to follow. As the team works to build a competitive roster and secure their quarterback's long-term future, fans will be eagerly awaiting news of a potential agreement. Will the Ravens be able to find a solution that satisfies both parties, or will the negotiations drag on into the offseason? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the fate of the Ravens' 2024 season hangs in the balance.
Original: ESPN
Image: ESPN
Written by Npsports
