Ravens Offered Lamar Jackson 3-Year Fully-Guaranteed Contracts

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The recent collusion appeal ruling involving Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens has shed light on a fascinating aspect of contract negotiations in the NFL. The ruling reveals that the Ravens offered Jackson two separate three-year, fully-guaranteed contracts in an attempt to secure his services, challenging the league's historical caution around such arrangements.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complexities and nuances of the NFL's salary structure, as well as the delicate balance between player agency and team strategy. The Ravens' offer of fully-guaranteed contracts raises questions about the league's efforts to discourage such deals and the potential impact on player rights and team strategies going forward.

The details

The appeal ruling shows that the Ravens' offer of three-year, fully-guaranteed contracts to Jackson was significantly shorter than the five-year deal Deshaun Watson received from the Cleveland Browns, which sparked Jackson's desire for a similar arrangement. This raises questions about Jackson's decision to ultimately sign a five-year contract with the Ravens, as the shorter three-year deal could have provided him with more immediate security and a quicker path to free agency or another contract.

• The collusion appeal ruling was issued on April 13, 2026.

What’s next

The implications of this case and the potential impact on future contract negotiations in the NFL will likely be a topic of ongoing discussion and analysis.