Ravens Face Key Offseason Decisions on Lamar Jackson Contract, Offensive Line

ESPN highlights Baltimore's top priorities as they look to build around their star quarterback.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Baltimore Ravens face a critical offseason as they look to sign star quarterback Lamar Jackson to a new contract and address needs on the offensive line and at wide receiver. ESPN's analysis reveals the team's 'biggest question' is getting a deal done with Jackson, who is set to have a $74.5 million salary cap hit in 2026. The Ravens also need to improve their pass protection and find more consistent receiving threats to support Jackson in the passing game.

Why it matters

The Ravens were among the Super Bowl favorites in 2025 but fell short due in part to injuries and struggles on the offensive line. Securing Jackson's long-term future and upgrading the supporting cast around him will be crucial for Baltimore to contend for a championship in the coming seasons.

The details

The Ravens need to sign Jackson to a new contract this offseason to lower his $74.5 million salary cap number and create more financial flexibility. Owner Steve Bisciotti has said he wants a deal done before free agency begins on March 11. The team also needs to re-sign Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum and upgrade the guard positions, where Daniel Faalele struggled in 2025. In the passing game, the Ravens need to find more consistent targets to complement top receiver Zay Flowers, as Rashod Bateman and DeAndre Hopkins both underwhelmed last season.

  • Owner Steve Bisciotti said last month he wants a new deal with Jackson finalized before the start of free agency on March 11.
  • In the 2025 season, Jackson was sacked on 9.8% of his dropbacks, the worst rate of his career.

The players

Lamar Jackson

The Ravens' star quarterback who is set to have a $74.5 million salary cap hit in 2026 and needs a new contract.

Steve Bisciotti

The owner of the Baltimore Ravens who has expressed a desire to get a new deal done with Lamar Jackson before free agency begins.

Tyler Linderbaum

The Ravens' Pro Bowl center who is the team's top free agent this offseason.

Daniel Faalele

An offensive lineman for the Ravens who struggled in 2025, allowing 30 pressures, four sacks, and three quarterback hits.

Zay Flowers

The Ravens' top wide receiver who had 86 catches for 1,211 yards in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“Baltimore needs to get a new deal done with Jackson to lower its $74.5 million salary cap number and create between $25 million and $30 million in cap space. This will allow the Ravens to address their offensive line and Jackson's targets in the passing game.”

— Jamison Hensley, ESPN reporter (ESPN)

“Owner Steve Bisciotti said last month that he wants a new deal with Jackson finalized before the start of free agency (March 11) because the quarterback's $74.5 million cap hit would hinder the Ravens' financial flexibility.”

— Kevin Eck, Baltimore Ravens reporter (Baltimore Ravens)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This offseason will be pivotal for the Ravens as they look to lock up Lamar Jackson long-term and surround him with the necessary offensive talent to compete for a Super Bowl. Improving the offensive line and finding more reliable receiving options will be key to maximizing Jackson's potential and getting the Ravens back to championship contention.