Ravens still waiting for Jackson to engage in extension talks
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson still isn't ready to sign a contract extension despite the club's interest, club owner Steve Bisciotti told reporters Tuesday.
"Unless he has a change of heart and calls (general manager) Eric (DeCosta) and says, 'I'm ready,' … Eric can't keep calling him and say, 'Hey, Lamar, you really need to get in here and get this thing done,'" Bisciotti said at the NFL owners' meetings, according to The Athletic's Jeff Zrebiec.
Baltimore began showing interest in extending Jackson's contract after the 2020 season. The 25-year-old doesn't have an agent, meaning the team needs to negotiate with him directly.
Jackson is scheduled to hit free agency after 2022, though Baltimore would likely use the franchise tag to keep him off the market.
The former MVP said in May 2021 that he wanted to stay with the Ravens "forever."
"I love Baltimore," Jackson said at the time. "I love the whole organization. I love everybody in the building. Hopefully, we'll be making something happen pretty soon."
The Ravens drafted Jackson 32nd overall in 2018. He's gone to the playoffs three times in four seasons and has gradually improved as a passer after initially relying on his rushing ability.
"We appreciate (Jackson)," said Bisciotti. "All I know is that his teammates love him, and the front office loves him."