Baltimore Ravens quarterback, Lamar Jackson, has officially become the highest-paid player in the NFL, after signing a record-setting five-year extension worth $260 million (CBS Sports, Bleacher Report). The extension comes after two years of contract negotiations between Jackson and the Ravens, during which there were missed opportunities, trade requests, and tense moments (CBS Sports). However, the agreement was finally reached on the first day of the 2023 NFL Draft, with Jackson and the team agreeing in principle to the extension (Baltimore Ravens).
The deal has garnered a lot of attention from experts and fans alike, with many citing it as a “landmark” agreement (Yahoo Sports). Some experts have even predicted that Jackson’s extension will have a significant impact on future NFL negotiations, especially for quarterbacks (CBS Sports). Despite the high price tag, many believe that the deal is well-deserved, especially considering Jackson’s impressive record as a quarterback. In his three years with the Ravens, Jackson has already accumulated several honors, including being named the NFL’s MVP in 2019 (CBS Sports).
While Jackson’s extension has been a cause for celebration among Ravens fans, it has also drawn attention to other NFL contracts. Some experts have even compared Jackson’s deal to the contract signed by Derek Carr with the New Orleans Saints, suggesting that the latter contract now appears to be a ‘bargain’ (Yahoo Sports). Nonetheless, many remain optimistic about the future of the NFL, predicting that Jackson’s contract will be a catalyst for more generous deals in the future.
But while the focus is on Jackson’s massive new contract, it’s important to remember that he is more than just a quarterback. Beyond his impressive football skills, Jackson has also been recognized for his activism, frequently lending his support to various social causes (The Baltimore Sun). As Jackson sets his sights on the next chapter of his career, the spotlight on his achievements both on and off the field will undoubtedly continue to shine bright.
