The Baltimore Ravens may have superstar quarterback Lamar Jackson locked up on a long-term contract, but there is an impending contract decision that could make the waters a bit more aggravated in the coming months if Jackson doesn't feel like he's compensated well.
Due to big contracts being handed out to average and above-average quarterbacks like Tua Tagovailoa, Trevor Lawrence, and Brock Purdy, an MVP like Jackson suddenly finds himself just 10th in the league in terms of average annual value and overall value. That doesn't mean Jackson is going to make a stink about it.
Jackson has shown up for the team's mandatory minicamp, which could have been a time for Jackson to skip town in the name of letting the team know his displeasure with his current contract. This could be a sign that everything is hunky dory between Jackson and Baltimore.
Jackson is ready to go. While he might not be banging the table for a new deal, the Ravens should reward their fearless leader by handing him a contract that makes him the new highest-paid player in the league.
Lamar Jackson's mandatory minicamp attendance shows commitment to Ravens
Jackson was robbed of an MVP by Josh Allen last season. Jackson's 41 passing touchdowns against four interceptions gave him the best passing season of his already legendary career, and he was named First Team All-Pro over Allen. Still, MVP No. 3 managed to elude him.
Jackson has shown that he is willing to get a bit nasty in contract talks if it means he can get his way, as shown during his last negotiation (which almost led to a trade). However, Jackson seems to be operating with much less urgency now that his big payday has been confirmed, showing that he is focused wholly on a championship.
Jackson will join Derrick Henry to form a ground game that will likely top the league in rushing yards per game once again. With a better collection of receivers than they had in past seasons, Todd Monken retained as offensive coordinator, and one of the AFC's best defenses, Jackson has what he needs to compete for a title.
The Ravens have come as close to a Super Bowl as possible without actually breaking through in the Jackson era. While the future Hall of Famer is still in his prime, it appears as though he is more focused on finally breaking through than he is on securing his next payday.