Lamar Jackson won't sign a contract extension with the Baltimore Ravens before the team's 2026 season opener on Sunday, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. The two-time NFL MVP's extension talks with Baltimore have reportedly hit a standstill.
Jackson signed a five-year deal worth over $250 million in 2023, but he could become an unrestricted free agent after the 2027-28 season ends. The timing has created urgency around extension discussions, though those conversations have now been shelved until the offseason.
"Extension talks have been ongoing," according to HITC, but multiple reports indicate the negotiations have stalled. The Ravens cannot afford to lose Jackson for nothing in a year's time, making an extension beneficial for both parties despite the potential cost to Baltimore.
The contract situation comes as Jackson enters his ninth NFL season. Some fans have expressed concerns about giving him another massive deal due to his playoff struggles, but the Ravens appear committed to keeping their franchise quarterback long-term.
Jackson could become NFL's first $70 million quarterback
Despite the current stalemate, Jackson's next contract could be historic. ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler believes Jackson could become the NFL's first quarterback to earn $70 million per year when extension talks resume.
"Jackson is starting the ninth year of his career with the Ravens," according to ClutchPoints, positioning him for what could be a record-breaking deal. The quarterback market has continued to escalate, with Jackson's proven track record as a two-time MVP making him a prime candidate to reset the market once again.
The Ravens have shown loyalty to Jackson throughout his career, and he has reciprocated that commitment. "I love this place," Jackson has said about Baltimore, though those comments were made in a different context about the organization's culture.
Jackson's current deal runs through the 2027 season, but the lack of guaranteed money beyond that point has created the extension discussions. The Ravens will need to balance Jackson's market value against their salary cap constraints while ensuring they don't lose their franchise cornerstone.
The timing of these stalled talks coincides with Jackson preparing for the 2026 season under new head coach Jesse Minter, who replaced longtime coach John Harbaugh after Baltimore's disappointing 8-9 campaign in 2025. The Ravens are hoping a healthier roster and new coaching staff can help Jackson finally break through in the playoffs.
With extension talks now pushed to next offseason, both Jackson and the Ravens will focus on the upcoming season. The quarterback's performance in 2026 could significantly impact his next contract's value, making this a crucial year for both sides as they work toward a long-term agreement.
