The Baltimore Ravens enter their Week 4 matchup with the Buffalo Bills looking to secure their third win of the season. And if they do so, it will likely be on the back of another outstanding performance from star quarterback Lamar Jackson.
Through three weeks, it’s hard to argue that any singular player has been more valuable to their team than Jackson has. Simply put, Lamar Jackson is the Baltimore Ravens right now.
Jackson garnered headlines for most of the offseason with the former NFL MVP searching for a contract extension. Both sides continued to negotiate throughout the last few months but were unable to come to an agreement before the start of the season.
It’s safe to say that Jackson is helping increase his value with his on-field performances, but just how much money should the Ravens be willing to pay? According to one NFL star, the Ravens should be willing to pay Jackson whatever he wants.
Buffalo Bills star pass rusher Von Miller was recently quoted saying that Jackson deserves to be the “highest-paid player in the NFL” ahead of the team’s Week 4 clash.
"“And that’s why he should be the highest-paid player in the NFL, and that’s why he should have the biggest contract out of all the quarterbacks. He’s done everything he can possibly do to put himself in a great situation for that.”"
Does Ravens QB Lamar Jackson deserve to be the NFL’s highest-paid player?
Miller will get a chance to see Jackson play up close and personal when he travels to M&T Bank Stadium to take on the Ravens in Week 4. The eight-time Pro Bowler does make a strong case.
Jackson is already one of the MVP favorites in the NFL through three weeks. He’s breaking NFL records every game and has single-handedly carried his team to victory on numerous occasions.
Jackson has thrown for 749 yards and 10 touchdowns along with 243 yards and a pair of touchdowns on the ground through the first three games of the season. He’s the first player since the NFL/AFL merger to rank both top-five in passing touchdowns and rushing yards through three weeks.
But does he deserve to become the highest-paid player in the NFL? That’s a loaded question, especially as it pertains to what “highest-paid player” really means.
The player with the highest cap hit in 2022 is Ryan Tannehill of the Tennessee Titans with a $38.6 million cap hit. Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs has the highest total contract value at a whopping $450 million.
But I think the number that’s most important to Jackson will be guaranteed money. That distinction is held by Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson whose infamous contract features a fully-guaranteed $230 million.
That’s likely what Jackson is looking for. Only time will tell if actually gets it from the Ravens, but he clearly has his share of supporters around the league.