Conflicting reports emerged early on Lamar Jackson extension talks to the Ravens. The self-represented quarterback did, in fact, engage in discussions with the team, according to ESPN.com’s Jamison Hensley (video link) Although the negotiations do not appear to have advanced much, GM Eric DeCosta said he and Jackson talked about the structure of an agreement, adds Hensley. An earlier report indicated that the Ravens and Jackson were not close on terms and, although that may be, DeCosta confirmed that the real negotiations will begin at some point. John Harbaugh said earlier this year that a Jackson extension would likely be approved in this off-season or in 2022. Jackson is expected to receive only $ 1.77 million of base salary this season.
Several defenders – Russell Wilson, Patrick Mahomes, Jared Goff, Carson Wentz and Deshaun Watson – opted for extensions going into their fourth season in recent years, instead of making money from a year 4 rookie contract. Dak Prescott waited, and it worked well. Prescott’s new deal is intended to help Jackson, as well as impending new TV deals that could restore the NFL’s salary cap increase. The Ravens will certainly choose Jackson’s fifth-year option – $ 23.1 million fully guaranteed – in May, giving them more time to strike a deal.
Here are the latest news from the Northern divisions:
- After negotiating Geno Atkins‘longtime defensive line mate, the Bengals are not committing to bringing back their permanent Pro Bowl defensive tackle. Cincinnati sent Carlos Dunlap to Seattle, after reducing his role last season, and used Atkins part-time during his eight-game season in 2020. The 11-year-old veteran struggled with a shoulder injury last season. “We’ll see what happens if any of the room needs to do a few other things. It’s a fluid situation, “Bengals Player Personnel Director Duke Tobin said, through the Tyler Dragon of the Cincinnati Enquirer. “… He’s a local product, really a success story and a guy that I love to see grow over the years. He gave us what he had last year, but it wasn’t close to what he’s used to and what we’re used to seeing. ”Atkins, who will turn 33 later this month, is not to be expected back with a $ 14.7 million cap. It will be interesting to see how Bengals proceed with their Pro Bowler seven times.
- Having lost JJ Watt, the Browns are expected to seek a major defensive end to complement Myles Garrett. They created another wave in the front, cutting Adrian Clayborn after a season.