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Ravens optimistic on Lamar Jackson extension before March
Baltimore general manager Eric DeCosta says he feels positive about reaching a new agreement with Lamar Jackson, despite the quarterback still having two seasons left on his current deal.
Baltimore Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta says he remains optimistic that the club can reach a contract extension with quarterback Lamar Jackson ahead of March. Source Source The comments arrive with Jackson still under contract for two more seasons, but with a major 2027 salary-cap figure already attached to his current agreement. Source Source
What happened
DeCosta addressed Jackson’s contract situation at a press conference on 2 September, saying, "I feel good about it." Source Source He also said Baltimore would like to complete any new agreement promptly, while stressing that these negotiations are unlike standard talks because Jackson represents himself rather than using an agent. Source Source DeCosta noted that he and Jackson have a standing understanding not to discuss the substance of contract talks in public. Source Source The general manager nevertheless pointed to their personal relationship and continued communication as important elements in any future agreement. Source Source
Jackson, 29, signed a five-year, $260 million contract with Baltimore in April 2023 and has two seasons remaining on it. Source Source If no extension is agreed, he would be due to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2027 season. Source The Ravens and Jackson have already been through a difficult set of negotiations before reaching their 2023 agreement. Source
Why it matters
The financial backdrop gives the talks added importance, as Jackson is currently scheduled to carry an approximate $84.3 million salary-cap figure in 2027, among the NFL’s highest. Source Source Baltimore restructured his existing contract earlier in 2026 to create cap space while continuing to pursue a longer-term extension, according to TSN. Source A new deal before March would therefore address a significant future cap consideration while giving the Ravens clarity around their starting quarterback. Source Source Source
Jackson’s on-field output remains central to the discussion. Source In 2025, he completed 63.6% of his passes for 2,549 yards, 21 touchdowns and seven interceptions, producing a 103.8 quarterback rating. Source He also ran for 349 yards on 67 attempts and scored two rushing touchdowns, a body of production that reflects his dual-threat role in Baltimore’s offence. Source Jackson is listed as the Ravens’ starting quarterback, wears No. 8 and entered the 2025 listing with nine seasons of experience. Source
What’s next
The immediate public timetable is DeCosta’s stated aim of having an extension in place ahead of March, although the club has not disclosed details of the negotiations. Source Source Baltimore’s on-field focus turns to its 2026 regular-season opener away to the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on 13 September, scheduled for 18:00 BST. Source Source Any further progress on a Jackson agreement is likely to be communicated sparingly given the parties’ agreement to avoid public contract discussion. Source Source
Notes
DeCosta’s comments signal confidence rather than a completed deal, and no financial terms for a potential extension have been announced. Source Source The quarterback’s self-representation remains a distinctive feature of the process. Source Source Baltimore and Jackson’s previous path to the 2023 deal also shows that optimism does not settle the timing or terms of a new agreement. Source
Key facts
5 data points- Current contract
- Five years and $260 million, signed in April 2023; two seasons remain.
- Source: The Athletic
Sources used in this piece
6 sources