ESPN’s Jamison Hensely provided an update on the contract negotiations between Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens.
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is the biggest name to watch this offseason. Over the past year, the former MVP has been unsuccessful in securing a contract extension with the Ravens.
In September, ESPN’s Chris Mortensen and Adam Schefter reported that Lamar Jackson was seeking a fully guaranteed contract upon signing.
It seems that Jackson did not reconsider his position.
On March 1, ESPN’s Jamison Hensley provided an update on negotiations between Jackson and the Ravens.
“According to sources, Jackson wants a fully guaranteed contract like the one given to Deshaun Watson last year, and the Ravens have been reluctant to offer that because they believe Watson’s contract is more an aberration than a precedent.” , wrote Hensley.
Jackson’s demands make sense. Deshaun Watson was given a fully guaranteed contract, and by this point in his career Jackson had built a stronger resume than Watson. While in Houston, Watson led the Texans to a 28-25 overall record as a starting quarterback. Jackson, meanwhile, led the Ravens to a 45-16 record as a starting quarterback. He was named NFL Most Valuable Player, First Team All-Pro, and NFL Pass Touchdowns Leader (2019).
Lamar Jackson’s contract will define the QB market.
Jackson’s next contract will have a profound ripple effect across the league. The Cleveland Browns made an unprecedented move by giving Watson a fully guaranteed contract. If Jackson also receives a fully guaranteed contract, it should set a precedent for top quarterbacks.
Conversely, if Jackson does not receive a fully guaranteed contract, Watson’s contract will be considered an anomaly. During negotiations, organizations can cite Jackson’s contract to counter claims for full guarantees.
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