How the Aaron Rodgers extension impacts Lamar Jackson and the Ravens
By Justin Fried
The Baltimore Ravens remain at odds with quarterback Lamar Jackson when it comes to extension negotiations. Jackson has remained steadfast and has really taken his time with contract talks.
On Tuesday, we may have gotten a glimpse of why that is.
The Green Bay Packers reportedly agreed to terms with star quarterback Aaron Rodgers on an extension that’s set to pay him $200 million over four years. The deal is worth $50 million per season and comes with $153 million in guarantees.
An extension of that magnitude only serves to benefit other quarterbacks waiting on an extension. That includes our very own Lamar Jackson.
Lamar Jackson benefits from the Aaron Rodgers extension
The Ravens agreeing to an extension with Jackson this offseason once seemed like a formality. General manager Eric DeCosta has been answering questions about his quarterback’s long-term future since last offseason, and the general consensus was always that it was just a matter of time.
But as the months have gone on, little progress has been made. The Ravens insist they’re working at “Lamar’s pace,” and Jackson doesn’t appear to be in any hurry.
This is despite the fact that an extension would be mutually beneficial. The Ravens would be able to create more cap space which would allow the team to further build around Jackson. Jackson would receive not only the benefit of a better roster, but he’d also obtain the all-important long-term security.
It’s seemingly a win-win. But Jackson is willing to forgo that financial security to bet on himself. He’s aware that, with every monster extension that’s handed out, his value only goes up. He’s an appreciating asset, at least barring any on-field setbacks.
The NFL salary cap is continuing to rise and it could explode next offseason with the league’s new TV deal kicking in. Jackson may not have an agent, but he’s well aware of this.
The Ravens will eventually agree on an extension with Lamar Jackson, it still feels safe to say that. But there’s a very real possibility that he plays out the entirety of his rookie contract before getting an extension done next offseason.
Next. 7 Ravens draft targets who raised their stock at the NFL Combine. dark
The Aaron Rodgers extension serves to benefit Jackson. As the old saying goes, a rising tide lifts all ships. Consider Jackson’s ship lifted.