Will the Baltimore Ravens let Lamar Jackson become a free agent?
The Baltimore Ravens missed the 2021 playoffs and are searching for ways to respond this season. Will this be Lamar Jackson’s final year playing in M&T Bank Stadium?
The desire to roster a dual-threat quarterback has increased for franchises during the last few seasons. Elite athletic ability at the quarterback position has proved to be a part of the recipe for winning a Vince Lombardi Trophy.
Playing behind a mobile quarterback has helped teams like the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs elevate their offensive performances. Greg Roman and the Baltimore Ravens’ offense have experienced similar results. The addition of Lamar Jackson reintroduced the city of Baltimore to winning traditions.
If the Ravens plan on remaining a top team in the NFL, their front office must find a way to re-sign the face of the franchise.
Baltimore Ravens: Changing the Identity
After years of being recognized for their stellar defense, Baltimore’s front office decided to work on building their offensive attack. In 2018, the Ravens used their first-round draft pick to bring in a quarterback who could take their team to a new level. Players like Sam Darnold, Baker Mayfield, and Josh Allen were considered the best available options for teams who desired to draft a new leader for their huddle.
As the draft continued throughout the night, the Ravens were certain that they had found their new franchise quarterback. With the thirty-second pick in the draft, the Ravens selected Lamar Jackson, a dual-threat quarterback from Louisville University.
Drafting Lamar Jackson changed the way the Ravens approached the game of football. With the help of their Heisman-winning quarterback, Baltimore quickly became one of the AFC’s rising contenders.
In 2018, Jackson’s versatility helped his team win the AFC North division. The Ravens’ 10-6 record earned a spot in the AFC’s wild card weekend. Although Baltimore was defeated by Philip Rivers and the Chargers in the first round, the 2018 season showed Baltimore Ravens fans how much Jackson had to offer.
Too Valuable to Let Go?
According to ESPN, Baltimore’s fifth-year quarterback has accumulated over 13,000 yards in total offense since 2018. His six yards per carry rushing average and 21 touchdowns are proof that Jackson is one of the best playmakers in the NFL.
While teams across the league evaluate their rosters, the Ravens will need to evaluate their starting quarterback’s contract. Jackson’s five-year rookie contract will run its course at the end of the 2022 regular season. If the Ravens refuse to rework their starting quarterback’s contract, they will be at risk of losing him to free agency next season.
Lamar Jackson has earned the right to be paid as a top athlete, but his play at quarterback has not convinced the Ravens’ front office. According to ESPN.com, Jackson finished in the bottom half of the league last season when ranked in passing yards, touchdowns, and interceptions. His career-low two rushing touchdowns last season did not help his chances of re-signing.
The Baltimore Ravens will need all hands on deck to make the most of their upcoming season. After missing the playoffs in 2021, John Harbaugh and his staff are searching for ways to improve their roster. With Lamar Jackson’s contract negotiations in limbo, talks of backup quarterback Tyler Huntley have begun to escalate.
If the Ravens cannot lock in their All-Pro quarterback’s return, Huntley may be the next man up for the following season.