No new deal for Lamar Jackson before the opener; Ravens talks on hold, likely until 2027

There will be no deadline-day deal for Lamar Jackson. The Ravens and their MVP quarterback will not agree to a lucrative contract extension before Sunday's opener.

Mike Garafolo put it plainly — the two sides are likely not talking contract until after this season, with all of Jackson's focus now on football.

The league is closing in on its first $70 million quarterback and that Jackson is positioned to test those limits. That is the bet: instead of taking a deal now at a number the Ravens are comfortable with, Jackson plays the season and lets the market — and his own performance — set his price in a year when quarterback money is expected to climb again. For Baltimore, the risk is obvious and twofold. A healthy, productive Jackson in 2026 makes the eventual deal more expensive, and it means a full season of contract questions shadowing the team every time the offense takes the field.