The contract negotiations between the Baltimore Ravens and quarterback Lamar Jackson are still ongoing.
They hope to get a deal done before their season starts on September 11.
Reports reveal that the Ravens offered more guaranteed money to Jackson than what Kyler Murray received from the Arizona Cardinals.
However, Jackson negotiated for a fully-guaranteed deal like what Deshaun Watson received from the Cleveland Browns.
But with Russell Wilson‘s recent contract extension, the odds are against Jackson’s favor.
In regards to Ravens and Lamar Jackson, the team can point to Russell Wilson's deal as further evidence that Deshaun Watson's $230M guaranteed is an aberration.
Since Watson signed, two QBs have signed and neither have come close to him: Kyler Murray ($189.5M) and Wilson ($165M)
— Jamison Hensley (@jamisonhensley) September 1, 2022
ESPN’s Jamison Hensley tweeted, “In regards to Ravens and Lamar Jackson, the team can point to Russell Wilson’s deal as further evidence that Deshaun Watson’s $230M guaranteed is an aberration. Since Watson signed, two QBs have signed, and neither have come close to him: Kyler Murray ($189.5M) and Wilson ($165M).”
Jackson represents himself, meaning that he has no agent to consult with.
Therefore, the Ravens only have to convince him to get a deal done.
By pointing out that Watson’s deal is an exception, they can persuade Jackson to finally agree.
Perhaps the Browns offered such a deal to sweeten the pot for Watson.
After all, they were initially out of the running to acquire the Pro Bowl quarterback.
Wilson’s Deal Could Affect Jackson’s
The Denver Broncos gave Wilson a five-year, $245 million contract extension, making him their quarterback until 2028, when he is 40 years old.
That amount translates to $49 million annually, making him the second highest-paid play-caller in the league behind Aaron Rodgers.
Jackson could refer to that deal and receive an amount in the ballpark.
Either the Ravens put his value between Rodgers and Wilson or offer him an amount slightly below the former Seahawk.
After all, Jackson cannot beat the Super Bowl ring that Wilson already has, even if he has become a former league MVP.
