Booger McFarland Calls for Lamar Jackson to Attend Ravens' Voluntary Workouts

ESPN analyst says Jackson's contract status and new offense make his presence crucial for Baltimore.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 10:50pm

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ESPN's Booger McFarland has called for Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson to participate in the team's upcoming voluntary offseason workouts. McFarland argues that as the likely highest-paid player on the team and with a new offensive system being installed, Jackson's presence is crucial for the Ravens' success, even if he doesn't need to attend every single session.

Why it matters

Jackson's contract negotiations with the Ravens have been a major storyline this offseason, and his participation in voluntary workouts could be seen as a sign of his commitment to the team and the new coaching staff led by first-year head coach Jesse Minter. McFarland believes Jackson's leadership and presence will be important as the Ravens implement a new offense.

The details

McFarland's comments came just days before the start of the Ravens' voluntary offseason workouts on April 6. Jackson is coming off a down season by his standards, passing for 2,549 yards and 21 touchdowns with 7 interceptions, while rushing for a career-low 349 yards and 2 touchdowns. The Ravens missed the playoffs with an 8-9 record. McFarland believes that as the likely highest-paid player on the team, Jackson should make an effort to be present for the majority of the voluntary sessions to help install the new offense and show his commitment to his teammates.

  • The Ravens' voluntary offseason workouts begin on April 6, 2026.
  • Jackson is coming off a 2025 season where he played in just 13 games.

The players

Lamar Jackson

The Baltimore Ravens' star quarterback who is in contract negotiations with the team and is expected to become one of the highest-paid players in the NFL.

Booger McFarland

An ESPN analyst who has called for Jackson to attend the Ravens' voluntary offseason workouts.

Jesse Minter

The new head coach of the Baltimore Ravens, taking over for Jim Harbaugh.

Steve Bisciotti

The owner of the Baltimore Ravens who has said the team will get Jackson a new contract.

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What they’re saying

“If you're the highest paid player on the team, installing a new offense, and you got a new contract. I think a lot of teammates are going to expect Lamar to be there the majority of the time.”

— Booger McFarland, ESPN Analyst

What’s next

The Ravens and Jackson will continue contract negotiations, with the expectation that he will sign a record-breaking deal to become one of the highest-paid players in the NFL. Jackson's participation in the team's voluntary offseason workouts will be closely watched as he looks to bounce back from a down 2025 season.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the delicate balance between a star player's contract status, team leadership, and the need to prepare for a new season, especially with a new coaching staff in place. McFarland's comments suggest Jackson's presence at voluntary workouts could be seen as a sign of his commitment to the Ravens and their new direction.