The Lamar Jackson-Baltimore Ravens feud is over, as the Baltimore QB announced on the team's Twitter that he and the team have agreed in principle to a five-year extension. The former Heisman Trophy winner didn't divulge any details, but did appear excited to be donning the purple and black for the next half-decade. Now, thanks to the crack investigative work of ESPN's Adam Schefter, we know that the Ravens locked up their franchise quarterback for five years, paying him $260 million with $185 million guaranteed.
The news dropped hours before the NFL Draft, where multiple teams are looking to snag their franchise QB. Bryce Young, Anthony Richardson, Hendon Hooker, C.J. Stroud and Will Levis will be joining the NFL ranks, but they won't be wearing a Ravens jersey.
Lamar Jackson Returns
Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images
Jackson's extension comes after Philadelphia Eagles QB Jalen Hurts received a five-year extension after leading the Birds to a Super Bowl against the Kansas City Chiefs. The deal that Hurts signed was less than the deal Jackson reportedly wanted, but it appears to have gotten both sides back to the negotiating table. On top of that, the AFC got even more interesting as the New York Jets acquired NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers, setting the AFC East ablaze.
With Jackson set to show off at M&T Stadium for the next half decade, Ravens fans now turn their sights to the NFL Draft. With the No. 22 pick int he first draft, it's unclear as to whether or not Baltimore will go after another offensive weapon for their franchise star. If Quentin Johnston is available, it's possible the Ravens could snag the TCU wideout instead of dealing for DeAndre Hopkins. Or, perhaps it's time for Baltimore to up their running game and select Texas rusher Bijan Robinson.
Regardless, it's clear that the Ravens wanted to put the whole contract debacle behind them and focus on the future. With Lamar locked up for the next five years, Baltimore can refocus on bringing a Super Bowl championship back to Maryland.
Welcome back, Lamar. Baltimore is glad you stayed.
