Ravens Staring at $60 Million Lamar Jackson Decision That Could Trigger Blockbuster Trade

The Baltimore Ravens are approaching a franchise‑defining crossroads with quarterback Lamar Jackson, and the timing couldn’t be worse. With Baltimore on the verge of falling out of the 2025 playoff race, one prominent ESPN insider believes this season may mark the beginning of the end for Jackson’s tenure in purple and black.

For years, the Ravens have been viewed as perennial contenders, but the 2025 campaign has unraveled in dramatic fashion. Jackson has battled injuries, struggled with consistency, and the team around him has failed to deliver. Now, the organization must confront a looming financial dilemma that could reshape its future.

A Massive Cap Crunch Arrives in 2026

According to ESPN’s Dan Graziano, Baltimore must make a definitive decision on Jackson’s contract by 2026. The quarterback is set to carry staggering cap hits of $74.5 million in both 2026 and 2027, numbers that are untenable without a restructuring.

Jackson still has two years remaining on his deal at $51.25 million per year in base salary, but none of that money is guaranteed. The Ravens can lower the cap burden by extending Jackson — a move Graziano estimates would cost around $60 million annually.

But extension isn’t the only option on the table.

Could Baltimore Actually Consider a Trade?

Graziano notes that while it’s unclear how likely a separation truly is, the Ravens must either extend Jackson or explore moving him. Jackson’s contract includes a no‑trade clause, giving him influence over any potential destination, but the possibility of a blockbuster deal is no longer far‑fetched.

The Ravens wouldn’t be upgrading at quarterback — there are few, if any, better players available. But Baltimore’s postseason track record under Jackson and head coach John Harbaugh has been underwhelming: just three playoff wins since 2018 and only one trip to the AFC Championship Game.

That stagnation has forced the organization to confront an uncomfortable question:
Is committing more than $60 million per year to Jackson the best path forward?

A Reset Would Be Painful — But Maybe Necessary

Trading Jackson would effectively push the reset button on the franchise. Baltimore would face lean years while rebuilding the roster and searching for a new QB1. But the return could be substantial. Even after an injury‑marred, inconsistent 2025 season, Jackson would command multiple high draft picks, including at least one first‑rounder.

Such a haul could accelerate a rebuild and give the Ravens a chance to reshape their identity.

A Franchise at a Crossroads

Baltimore’s struggles aren’t solely on Jackson, but the franchise has clearly hit a ceiling. With the 2026 decision looming, the Ravens must determine whether to double down on their former MVP or pivot toward a new era.

Around the league, quarterback uncertainty is dominating offseason conversations. It may be time to add the Ravens — and Lamar Jackson — to that list.