Statements
The $260 million five-year deal for Lamar Jackson includes bonuses contingent on his participation in 80% of the team’s offseason program. However, Jackson has skipped four of Baltimore's first five voluntary organized team activities (OTAs), costing him a hefty $750,000. Despite this, Jackson is set to earn $14.25 million in base salary this season.
Jackson remains steadfast in his focus on improvement, evident from his attendance during the last week of voluntary OTAs and his active participation in mandatory minicamp. His commitment is clear as he comes off a season with career highs in 3,678 yards passing and a 67.2% completion rate.
Under Jackson's leadership, the Ravens boast a 58-19 (.753) record, averaging 28.3 points per game. However, the team faces challenges as they need to replace three starters on their offensive line. Despite this, their offensive skill positions remain intact.
Jackson’s initial absence raises questions about team chemistry, but the Ravens hope their forward momentum will carry them through the season into Super Bowl contention. Jackson’s commitment suggests he’s ready to meet expectations as minicamp concludes and training camp approaches. All eyes will be on Lamar Jackson and the Ravens.
Quotes
When asked about his contract, Jackson stated, "I never discuss my contract up here. I'm not about to start today." His focus is clearly on improving his performance, as he emphasized, "I'm focusing on just getting better and focusing on tomorrow."
Regarding the readiness of the team, Jackson admitted, "We don't really know who the guys are going to be right now. We're not in camp. We're not close to the first game or anything like that. But right now, I feel like we're taking steps in the right direction. Guys are moving good, running great routes, catching the ball, blocking good. We look pretty smooth."
He set a clear expectation for the team, stating, "They're going to have to come to South Florida. They're going to have to do it. We have to. We're trying to get to the Super Bowl, and for us to do that, we have to grind. We have to build chemistry."
Reflecting on a recent practice, Jackson shared, "We just had a great practice. We're just trying to keep it going. Then, when [training] camp comes, camp is going to come." He added, "I believe our offense is taking steps in the right direction right now."
As training camp approaches, the primary focus for the Ravens and their fans will be on how well Jackson and the team can build on their current progress and address the gaps in their offensive line. Jackson’s determination and the team's performance in upcoming practices and games will be critical in shaping their journey toward contending for the Super Bowl.