The Baltimore Ravens and star quarterback Lamar Jackson have been at a constant standstill with his impending contract situation. While the Ravens have been hoping to sign Jackson to a long-term extension, it seems like that may not happen.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport revealed on Monday that despite Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta going down to Florida to discuss an extension with Jackson, an extension “doesn’t appear to be on the horizon.” He also revealed that Jackson is likely going to be franchise tagged by Baltimore if they cannot come to a deal by Tuesday.
“It is clear that they are making efforts to sign Jackson to a long-term or short-term deal,” said Rapoport of the Ravens. “Something more than the franchise tag. It just doesn’t seem like there has been engagement from Lamar Jackson’s side. If this is not done by tomorrow, he will be franchise tagged.”
From @NFLTotalAccess: The #Ravens are trying, but a deal for QB Lamar Jackson doesn't appear on the horizon. It'll be the tag. pic.twitter.com/zPxUba3VqJ
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 7, 2023
The deadline for franchise tags for NFL teams is Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET. This makes it nearly a guarantee that unless Baltimore and Jackson can come to a decision quickly, he will ultimately be franchise tagged.
Lamar Jackson and the Ravens have disagreed on contract talks dating back to last offseason when Jackson reportedly turned down a six-year contract where he could have earned upwards of $290 million.
Tagging Jackson would likely go one of two ways for the Ravens. It woud either buy them more time to figure out an extension for Jackson, or alienate him leading to Jackson potenially requesting a trade.
Regardless, it is very clear that tensions are certainly rocky at the moment in Baltimore.
