Dan Graziano just dropped a bomb, straight up: Lamar Jackson could realistically snag a $70 million per-year contract. If that sounds absolutely bonkers, well, it is, but after watching Jackson torch the Indianapolis Colts in Week 1, it’s not as wild as you’d think. The Ravens blew out the Colts, putting up a ridiculous 41 points to kick off the 2026 NFL season, and yeah, Jackson was the engine.
The Numbers Jackson Is Slinging
Let’s talk about that Week 1 performance because it’s the whole reason we’re even having this conversation. Jackson was locked in, going 17-for-25 through the air for 324 yards and a touchdown. But you know Lamar, he doesn’t just pass; he runs. He added seven rushes for another 40 yards and a touchdown on the ground. That’s a serious start to any year, and it’s got ESPN’s Graziano saying “NOT AN OVERREACTION” to the $70 million projection. Patrick Mahomes currently holds the record for an NFL contract on a per-year basis at $64 million. With Baker Mayfield already hitting $55 million this offseason, it feels like Jackson is already set to surpass Mahomes’ mark. But $70 million? That’s a whole new stratosphere.
Baltimore’s Big Gamble (and Bigger Opportunity)
The Ravens gambled big by not locking Jackson into a long-term deal before the season started. Now, if he keeps playing like this, that decision is going to look like a massive mistake. A four-year, $280 million deal is an eye-watering amount of cash, no doubt. But the source points out that as long as it isn’t fully guaranteed, like Deshaun Watson’s contract with the Browns, Baltimore might not be totally crippled. They could get creative, adding void years to push cap hits into the future, and still build a competitive roster around him. There’s risk, absolutely, but Jackson reminded everyone in Week 1 that his ceiling is sky-high.
What’s next for Lamar and the Ravens? The stakes are through the roof this season. Could another MVP be in store for Jackson? If he can pull that off and lead the Ravens on a deep playoff run, that projected $70 million per year might just look like a total bargain. Get ready, NFL, because Lamar Jackson is playing for a monster payday, and he’s bringing the thunder.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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