Baltimore Ravens Secure Lamar Jackson for the Long Term: A 4-Year Contract Extension Keeps Him Until 2028
In a monumental move that marks the beginning of a new era for the franchise, the Baltimore Ravens have officially accepted Lamar Jackson’s four-year contract extension, securing their star quarterback through the 2028 season. This extension not only ensures the Ravens have a dynamic leader under center but also signals the team’s commitment to building around Jackson as the cornerstone of their offense for the foreseeable future.
Lamar Jackson’s journey in Baltimore has been filled with highs and lows, but one thing is clear: he has become the face of the franchise. The decision to extend his contract is not just about locking down one of the NFL’s most electrifying quarterbacks but also about aligning the team’s future with Jackson’s unique skill set, leadership, and potential. For the Ravens, this move is more than just a contract extension; it is a statement of intent.
Lamar Jackson’s Rise to Superstardom
Lamar Jackson’s arrival in Baltimore was a turning point for both the quarterback and the franchise. Drafted as the 32nd overall pick in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft, Jackson’s talent was undeniable. His blend of speed, athleticism, and arm strength made him a unique prospect, and the Ravens recognized that potential. In his rookie season, Jackson took over as the starter midway through the year, leading the Ravens to a division title and the playoffs. His dynamic running ability and knack for making plays in critical moments quickly earned him the nickname “Action Jackson” and endeared him to fans.
The 2019 season marked Jackson’s full arrival as one of the most exciting quarterbacks in the NFL. He threw for 3,127 yards and 36 touchdowns, and rushed for over 1,200 yards and seven touchdowns, earning him the NFL MVP award. Jackson’s unprecedented ability to change the course of a game with his legs, combined with his improving passing accuracy, made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. The Ravens finished with a 14-2 record, the best in the league, and Jackson seemed poised to lead Baltimore to a Super Bowl victory.
However, despite his individual success, Jackson and the Ravens faced some postseason struggles in the following years. While the team consistently made it to the playoffs, they struggled to get over the hump, particularly in the postseason, where Jackson faced criticism for his inability to win big games. The 2020 season saw Jackson face some adversity, including a difficult playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills. Nonetheless, Jackson showed his resilience, bouncing back with a strong 2021 campaign, and in 2022, led the team to a solid regular season record before being sidelined with injuries.
Despite these challenges, Jackson’s value to the Ravens has never been in question. He is the franchise’s leader, both on and off the field, and the team’s offensive success has often revolved around him. His ability to extend plays, make spectacular throws, and maintain his calm under pressure makes him one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the league, and the Ravens have long understood his importance.
The Contract Extension: Why It Makes Sense for Both Sides
The decision to extend Lamar Jackson’s contract through 2028 is a monumental step for both the Ravens and Jackson. There are several key reasons why this extension is not only logical but essential for the future of the franchise.
1. Quarterback Stability in a Quarterback-Driven League
In the NFL, success starts with the quarterback. Every team is searching for a franchise quarterback who can lead them to championships, and the Ravens have found that in Lamar Jackson. The contract extension provides the Ravens with long-term stability at the most important position on the field. Jackson’s unique blend of skills gives Baltimore a competitive edge in a league that is increasingly defined by high-powered offenses and dynamic quarterbacks. His mobility and playmaking ability allow him to break open games in ways that few quarterbacks can. The Ravens know that they have one of the league’s best under center, and keeping him locked down for the next four years was a no-brainer.
2. Building Around Jackson’s Strengths
One of the hallmarks of Jackson’s success in Baltimore has been the Ravens’ ability to tailor their offense to his unique skill set. The Ravens’ offensive philosophy has been built around Jackson’s ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs. The team has relied heavily on the running game, with Jackson serving as a dual-threat quarterback capable of executing read-options, running the ball himself, and keeping defenses on their toes. However, over the years, Jackson’s passing game has steadily improved. Under offensive coordinator Todd Monken, the Ravens have begun to shift towards a more balanced attack that combines Jackson’s explosive running with a more traditional passing game.
The extension not only provides stability but also allows the Ravens to continue developing an offense that maximizes Jackson’s abilities. With the addition of top receiving talent like Odell Beckham Jr. and rookie Zay Flowers, the Ravens have placed an emphasis on building a strong receiving corps around Jackson. The team has also solidified its offensive line and improved the running back room, giving Jackson the tools he needs to succeed in both the short and long term.
3. Lamar Jackson’s Leadership and Influence
Beyond his play on the field, Lamar Jackson is the heart and soul of the Ravens. His leadership, work ethic, and calm demeanor have earned the respect of his teammates, coaches, and fans alike. Jackson has become the unquestioned leader of the locker room, and his ability to inspire his team is one of the reasons the Ravens have been so consistently competitive since he became the starter. His presence elevates the entire team, and his influence goes beyond the numbers on the scoreboard.
The contract extension is a recognition of Jackson’s leadership qualities. The Ravens have committed to Jackson not just because of his talent but because of his ability to lead by example and keep the team focused on the task at hand. Whether it’s rallying the team from behind or simply providing a steady presence during difficult times, Jackson’s leadership has proven invaluable to the Ravens’ success.
4. Positioning for Future Success
With Jackson secured through 2028, the Ravens can now shift their focus to other areas of the roster. They are in an excellent position to continue building a championship-caliber team around Jackson. With the extension in place, the team can concentrate on improving the defense, strengthening the depth at key positions, and continuing to add talent on the offensive side of the ball. Jackson’s long-term contract provides the Ravens with the financial flexibility to make the necessary moves to keep the team competitive for years to come.
Additionally, with the AFC becoming increasingly stacked with talented quarterbacks, securing Jackson for the long haul positions the Ravens as a perennial contender in a conference that features stars like Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, and Josh Allen. The Ravens are ready to build around Jackson and create a sustained run of playoff appearances and potential Super Bowl wins.
5. The Lamar Jackson Effect: Elevating the Franchise
Lamar Jackson’s impact on the Ravens franchise goes beyond football. His success has brought national attention to Baltimore, and his ability to capture the imagination of fans has made him one of the most marketable players in the NFL. His dynamic playstyle has redefined what a quarterback can be, inspiring a new generation of football fans and players.
By committing to Jackson, the Ravens are embracing not just a great football player but a transformative figure in the sport. The extension ensures that Lamar Jackson will be at the forefront of the franchise’s growth and success, helping elevate the team’s profile both on and off the field.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for the Ravens
With Lamar Jackson locked in through 2028, the Ravens are positioned for sustained success. Jackson’s unique skill set, leadership, and ability to elevate the play of those around him make him one of the most valuable players in the NFL. The four-year extension gives Baltimore a window to build a championship team around their superstar quarterback, and with a strong supporting cast in place, the sky’s the limit for what the Ravens can accomplish in the coming years.
For Ravens fans, this is a time to celebrate. The future is bright, and Lamar Jackson’s continued presence at quarterback means the team is poised to be a consistent contender for years to come. The contract extension isn’t just a win for Jackson—it’s a win for the entire Baltimore Ravens organization.