Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson’s season has been marred by injuries, sparking rumors of a potential divorce from the team. With the Ravens’ postseason hopes hanging in the balance, the team faces a significant challenge in reducing their cap hit to $74.5 million next season. To achieve this, they must either extend Jackson’s contract or trade him.
Jackson has played in only 12 games this season, completing 63.7% of his pass attempts for 2,311 yards, with 18 touchdowns and six interceptions. This is a significant decline from his performance last season, when he threw for 4,172 yards, 41 touchdowns, and four interceptions.
Former NFL wide receiver Chad Ochocinco has urged Jackson to consider leaving the Ravens, stating “Come home if they don’t appreciate you” on social media. The Ravens are currently 7-8 for the season, sitting second behind the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC North. To make the postseason, they need to win their remaining games against the Green Bay Packers and the Steelers, while also relying on Pittsburgh to lose their last two games.
ESPN insider Dan Graziano has suggested a potential solution to the Ravens’ cap issue, proposing that the team examine whether offering Jackson a new extension in excess of $60 million per year is the best way to build their team moving forward. Graziano notes that replacing Jackson with a better player may not be feasible, given his exceptional talent.
The Ravens face a critical must-win game against the Packers on Sunday, followed by a divisional rivalry match against the Steelers the following week. The outcome of these games will significantly impact the team’s postseason aspirations and potentially influence Jackson’s future with the Ravens. As the season draws to a close, the Ravens must navigate their cap issues and make key decisions about their quarterback’s future, all while competing for a spot in the playoffs.
