Ravens GM DeCosta Confident on Lamar Jackson Extension Before March Deadline
Baltimore Ravens General Manager Eric DeCosta expressed optimism on September 2, 2026, that he will reach a contract extension with quarterback Lamar Jackson before the March 2027 league year begins. DeCosta declined to discuss specific terms, citing a private agreement with Jackson, who represents himself in negotiations. The current five-year, $260 million deal expires after 2027, with a cap hit of $84.3 million for that season. While Jackson’s average salary ranks 11th in the NFL, the Ravens aim to finalize the deal to maintain roster flexibility and avoid the financial constraints of his escalating contract.
Key points
- DeCosta stated he is 'optimistic' about finalizing an extension with Lamar Jackson before March 2027.
- Jackson, who acts as his own agent, has publicly stated his desire to remain with the Ravens.
- The current contract is worth $260 million over five years, with a 2027 cap hit of $84.3 million.
- DeCosta emphasized the Ravens' commitment to compensating top players 'fair plus' regarding guarantees and term.
- The Ravens previously restructured Jackson's contract in March 2026 to free up approximately $40 million in cap space.
Background
The Ravens signed Zay Flowers to a $140 million extension in August 2026, signaling a focus on securing key offensive pieces. Fantasy analysts have debated Jackson's value due to injury history and role changes, while ESPN projected a potential production peak for Jackson in the 2026 season. The current contract, signed in 2023, initially made Jackson the highest-paid player in the NFL, though his average salary now ranks 11th behind Patrick Mahomes.
How outlets are covering it
NBC Sports and theScore report DeCosta's optimism regarding a pre-March deal, highlighting the private nature of the negotiations due to Jackson's lack of an agent. The Baltimore Ravens' official statement adds that DeCosta is 'bullish' on defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike's return and is awaiting an NFL investigation into wide receiver Rashod Bateman. Sporting News emphasizes that Jackson holds significant leverage in the drama, noting the team's previous restructuring of his contract to manage cap space. All sources agree that Jackson's current average salary of $52 million ranks 11th in the league, but they differ in emphasis: NBC and theScore focus on the timeline, while the Ravens' official channel provides broader roster updates including practice squad additions like kicker Jake Moody.
Why it matters
Resolving Jackson's contract is critical for the Ravens' long-term competitiveness and salary cap management. A failure to reach an extension would leave the team with a massive 2027 cap hit, limiting their ability to build around their star quarterback. The outcome will also influence the market for other quarterbacks and wide receivers, as the Ravens have already committed significant resources to Zay Flowers.
What to watch
The Ravens and Jackson will continue private negotiations through the 2026 season. A deal is expected before the March 2027 league year begins to avoid the $84.3 million cap hit. The team will also monitor the NFL's investigation into Rashod Bateman and the return timeline for Nnamdi Madubuike, which could impact roster decisions and cap allocation.
- Eric DeCosta "optimistic" about a deal for Lamar Jackson before March NBC Sports
- Eric DeCosta ‘Optimistic’ on Reaching Contract Agreement With Lamar Jackson Baltimore Ravens
- DeCosta says he’s optimistic about Lamar extension NBC Sports
- Lamar Jackson has all the leverage in Ravens contract drama sportingnews.com
- Ravens GM 'optimistic' about extending Lamar theScore
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