Time is ticking on the contract of Lamar Jackson with the Baltimore Ravens.
The MVP quarterback has yet to sign a new deal with the team.
However, this is because he wants to wait things out in Baltimore.
But with his team having one of the worst offensive lines in 2021, is this a smart move by him?
While he wants to prove himself as an elite quarterback, he’s going into 2022 with fewer weapons on offense.
This now makes things harder on Jackson as he’s on his final contract year with Baltimore.
Could Jackson Regress In 2022 Without Playmakers On Offense?
Every quarterback needs that one player to help make life easy for them.
Aaron Rodgers benefited with Davante Adams on his team, which allowed him to collect two MVP titles.
However, the Ravens sent their top receiver to Arizona in exchange for a first-round draft pick.
TRADE:
Cardinals send the #23 pick to the Ravens for Hollywood Brown and pick #100.
— 4x MVP AARON RODGERS 👑 (@_loipos) April 29, 2022
The trade would upset Jackson, as he lost his top target in Baltimore.
It also gives Jackson a slate of young receivers, with none of them posting a 1,000-yard season in their careers.
This could lead to him regressing, as these receivers haven’t proven themselves as top receivers.
But it doesn’t seem to affect Jackson and his confidence in himself as an elite quarterback.
However, with him coming off an injury that ended his season in 2021, he’s facing an uphill battle in Baltimore this season.
With The Odds Against Jackson In 2022, Signing A Deal Now Is Best For Him
While some NFL players can shake off injuries, it’s not guaranteed that Jackson can do the same.
His injury history, along with a lack of top receiving talent, puts the odds against him in 2022.
If his numbers fall off, Baltimore would have every reason to give Jackson less money in 2023.
However, if he signs a deal now, it prevents any low-ball offer in 2023 if he cannot produce in 2022.
With his injury last season, the Ravens would use that to lower their offer in 2023 if Jackson flops again.
Not really. Both sides are at an impasse. Ravens feel like they can get Jackson for cheap because he had an off year and Jackson knows his worth. Ravens are hoping Jackson caves and he didn’t. It’s just business but a deal is highly likely.
— Ry (@Ry96291306) May 23, 2022
That’s why he shouldn’t wait on a new contract.
The market in the NFL for 2022 is seeing players get mega contracts from teams.
Jackson would be wise to join that group of players getting their payday.
Can A Deal Get Done In 2022?
Every Ravens fan wants to see their star quarterback get his contract extension.
However, it might not be likely that a deal will happen in 2022.
One side is set on making an offer, while the other side wants to prove they are worth more than that offer.
If Baltimore really wants to keep their MVP quarterback, but not offer a new contract, they can franchise tag him.
With this option on the table, it forces their quarterback to show how much he really wants to stay with the team.
So with the Ravens having everything in their favor, it will be tough for Jackson to get the deal he wants.
While a deal should get done now, it most likely won’t happen this season for Ravens fans.
NEXT: Former NFL QB Defends Lamar Jackson's Style Of Play