Can Lamar Jackson's mother salvage Ravens' contract negotiations? NFL commentator insists damage is already done
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson was placed on the non-exclusive franchise tag after not coming to terms on a long-term deal with the team before Tuesday's franchise tag deadline.
We have used the franchise tag on quarterback Lamar Jackson. https://t.co/AHrqyCgcAI
Jackson wants to hammer out a massive long-term extension upon playing on his rookie deal and fifth-year option.
Joining Colin Cowherd on The Herd with Colin Cowherd, analyst and former NFL player Mark Schlereth spoke about Jackson's contract situation with the Ravens. Schlereth thinks the two parties are far off in talks, with about $100 million in guarantees.
Schlereth said:
"The reality of the situation is like there is a chasm of $100 million between what Baltimore is offering in guarantees and what Lamar wants in guarantees. Now, I don't care who your agent is, they're not going to jump over $100 million chasm right now. It's like that's too much money rides. Like, okay, now you've hired an agent. Here's your extra 100,000,000 million. That ain't happening. So that part is faulty."
Lamar is just trying to get his worth. He's only made $27 million in his first five seasons in the NFL. He is set to make $32.4 million this season
His mother, Felicia Jones, negotiated his four-year $9.4 million rookie deal. He then played last season on a $23 million fifth-year option contract.
Jackson is his own agent and gets some help from his mother. Some think hiring an agent would help his chances at securing a contract, while others, such as Shannon Sharpe, don't.
Should Lamar Jackson settle for anything less than a fully-guaranteed contract?
It's been a while since a team and its franchise quarterback have had difficulties with contract talks like the Ravens are having with Jackson.
Jackson turned down a deal from the Ravens last year, which included $133 million in guaranteed money.
@RGIII "Jackson turned down a five-year, $250 million contract in September that included $133 million guaranteed."
espn.com/nfl/story/_/id…
Meanwhile, the Cardinals awarded Kyler Murray $189 million in guaranteed money as part of a five-year $230.5 million deal. Moreover, Deshaun Watson received a five-year $230 million fully guaranteed contract from the Browns after missing the entire 2021 season due to sexual assault allegations.
Jackson has won the league MVP, led the league in passing touchdowns, and has a career record of 45-16 with a few playoff wins. He deserves more than what the Ravens are currently offering him.
If you use any of the above quotes, please credit Mark Schlereth, The Herd with Colin Cowherd, and H/T Sportskeeda.