Posted on Jan 13

Ravens prioritize new deal for Jackson amid looming free agency, says owner Bisciotti

Posted Jan 13, 2026

The Baltimore Ravens are in urgent negotiations to restructure quarterback Lamar Jackson's contract, with the aim of alleviating his substantial cap hit ahead of free agency.

Why it matters: The Ravens are under pressure to finalize a new deal for Jackson before the upcoming free agency period, which begins in March.

Jackson's current cap number of $74.5 million accounts for 25% of the team's salary cap, significantly impacting their ability to sign other players.
Owner Steve Bisciotti has emphasized the urgency of resolving this issue, stating, "I don't want to go into free agency with that hanging over our head."

What’s new: Jackson is currently signed for three more years but faces an escalating cap figure, projected to increase by $31 million in 2026.

The potential restructuring aims to adjust Jackson's deal while maintaining some of its original components. Bisciotti expressed hope that Jackson is amenable to a structure similar to his last contract but with a higher annual value.

Yes, but: While both parties appear optimistic, the negotiation landscape remains complex.

If a new deal isn’t reached, the Ravens have a strategy to spread out Jackson’s massive cap hit into void years—an option they prefer to avoid as it would push financial burdens into future seasons.
Bisciotti acknowledged the delicate balance of power in these negotiations, remarking, “a lot of say, but it is no power. I have the power.”

What to watch: The outcome of these negotiations will have implications not just for the Ravens, but also across the league.

A successful contract adjustment could set a precedent for how teams manage high-profile contracts amid salary cap constraints.
With several key free agents on the roster, the Ravens must navigate this situation carefully to maintain competitiveness.

The bottom line: With Jackson’s significant impact on the Ravens’ offensive scheme, securing a favorable deal is vital for both player and team.

Jackson, a two-time NFL MVP, plays a crucial role in Baltimore's success, and his performance directly affects the team's playoff aspirations.
As negotiations continue, the Ravens will need to balance present needs with future financial health, making this a critical moment in franchise history.

Ravens prioritize new deal for Jackson amid looming free agency, says owner Bisciotti

Alex Parker

Posted Jan 13, 2026

The Baltimore Ravens are in urgent negotiations to restructure quarterback Lamar Jackson's contract, with the aim of alleviating his substantial cap hit ahead of free agency.

Why it matters: The Ravens are under pressure to finalize a new deal for Jackson before the upcoming free agency period, which begins in March.

Jackson's current cap number of $74.5 million accounts for 25% of the team's salary cap, significantly impacting their ability to sign other players.

Owner Steve Bisciotti has emphasized the urgency of resolving this issue, stating, "I don't want to go into free agency with that hanging over our head."

What’s new: Jackson is currently signed for three more years but faces an escalating cap figure, projected to increase by $31 million in 2026.

The potential restructuring aims to adjust Jackson's deal while maintaining some of its original components. Bisciotti expressed hope that Jackson is amenable to a structure similar to his last contract but with a higher annual value.

Yes, but: While both parties appear optimistic, the negotiation landscape remains complex.

If a new deal isn’t reached, the Ravens have a strategy to spread out Jackson’s massive cap hit into void years—an option they prefer to avoid as it would push financial burdens into future seasons.

Bisciotti acknowledged the delicate balance of power in these negotiations, remarking, “a lot of say, but it is no power. I have the power.”

What to watch: The outcome of these negotiations will have implications not just for the Ravens, but also across the league.

A successful contract adjustment could set a precedent for how teams manage high-profile contracts amid salary cap constraints.

With several key free agents on the roster, the Ravens must navigate this situation carefully to maintain competitiveness.

The bottom line: With Jackson’s significant impact on the Ravens’ offensive scheme, securing a favorable deal is vital for both player and team.

Jackson, a two-time NFL MVP, plays a crucial role in Baltimore's success, and his performance directly affects the team's playoff aspirations.

As negotiations continue, the Ravens will need to balance present needs with future financial health, making this a critical moment in franchise history.