Ravens have huge dark cloud hanging over franchise

TL;DR

The Baltimore Ravens face uncertainty as they navigate Lamar Jackson's contract situation. Despite restructuring his deal to create cap space, the franchise still needs to address his long-term future.

Key points

Ravens face uncertainty over Lamar Jackson's contract
Restructured deal frees up cap space
Long-term future of Jackson remains unresolved

Baltimore RavensLamar Jackson

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One of the big storylines entering the offseason for the Baltimore Ravens was the contract situation with Lamar Jackson.

Given his huge cap hit, the franchise wanted to extend him to lower his cap number, thus making it affordable to sign free agents. That didn't happen.

Instead, the Ravens restructured his deal, thus freeing up some cap space, but the franchise still has to sort out Jackson's long-term future.

And for NFL.com's Kevin Patra, that still remains a huge watch for Baltimore.

“Jackson’s contract situation will shade the rest of the offseason,” Patra wrote. “It’s an issue the Ravens want to resolve, but heretofore have yet to find a solution with the QB. Will he surpass Dak Prescott as the highest-paid player in the league?”

More:Why Bills still have huge Keon Coleman question mark

Will Ravens extend Lamar?

Honestly, I have no idea.

But I find it hard to believe that the Ravens would let a two-time MVP leave the building. It's just that this saga doesn't appear to even be close to a resolution.

This season, it's fine with Lamar regarding his contract, but in 2027? His base salary is $51 million, and he has an $84 million cap hit. A trade after June 1, either this year or next year, will see the Ravens eat just over $32 million per Over The Cap and save $52 million in 2027 (only $2 million in 2026).

But surely the Ravens won't deal Jackson, right?

I can't imagine that will, but if talks over a new contract remain at an impasse, fans had better strap themselves in for a serious ride next offseason.

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Q&A

What is Lamar Jackson's current contract situation with the Ravens?

Lamar Jackson's contract has been restructured to lower his cap hit, but the Ravens still need to resolve his long-term future.

How does Lamar Jackson's contract impact the Ravens' ability to sign free agents?

The Ravens aimed to extend Jackson's contract to reduce his cap number, making it easier to afford free agents, but the restructuring alone may not fully address their needs.

What are the implications of Lamar Jackson's cap hit for the Ravens?

Jackson's significant cap hit creates financial challenges for the Ravens, impacting their roster decisions and overall team strategy.