The Ravens had a hellish run this year. Lamar Jackson got his ace in RB Derrick Henry. The HC John Harbaugh expected a dominant run in his 17th NFL season. The AFC North team got first place in the division with a 12-5 win-loss record. They later won the wildcard game by defeating the Steelers by 28-14. In the end, the Bills eliminated them. But the QB-RB duo had made their mark. In fact, after the regular season ended, they were contenders for the MVP.
Derrick Henry arrived in the franchise on a 2-year $16 million contract. But the NFL rumors are strong that John Harbaugh could secure Lamar Jackson’s teammate for the foreseeable future with a long-term extension. There’s a reason behind such murmurs.
The Ravens HC is ready to shell out millions for the star. In a transcript from the NFL owners’ meeting on March 31, he said, “It’s definitely in the conversation. I know that’s been talked about, and yes, I’d love to see that get done as well.” This year, he is set for $12.895 million. His stock increased after the performance in his first year with the Ravens.
NFL RUMORS: The #Ravens would like to secure a long term deal with Derrick Henry. pic.twitter.com/ZjdMmjSplZ
— NFL Rumors (@nflrums) April 1, 2025
In 17 games (all starters) in 2024, Derrick Henry gave superb support to Lamar Jackson. The RB recorded 325 receptions for 1,921 rushing yards and 16 TDs. He had 19 receptions for 193 receiving yards and 2 TDs. That’s a significant sign for the franchise. They need to move further in this direction if they really want to secure him. But he wouldn’t be alone.
The stocks of quarterbacks are rising in the league. Their rivals, the Bills, signed a 5-year $330 million extension with their QB Josh Allen. That might happen with the Ravens QB as well.
John Harbaugh eyeing an extension for Lamar Jackson
After getting confidence from his players, the signal caller went on a roll. In 2024, he started all 17 games and had 316 of 474 passes (66.7% completion rate), 4,172 passing yards, 41 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions. It was his first NFL season with 4k+ passing yards. Even his rushing game was on point, with 139 rushes in 915 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns.
While discussing the future of Lamar Jackson in the league, the HC said, “There’s been conversations about that internally, I know. How far along that is or whatever, I don’t know. Lamar is the main part of that because he’s the franchise player. That’s a possibility, I think. Sooner or later, definitely it’s going to have to happen.”
Credits-Getty Images
In 2023, he signed a 5-year $260 million contract with $185 million guaranteed. This year, he carries a $43.5 million cap salary hit. But the head coach made a revelation by claiming that the QB would become the highest paid player in the league with the extension. So, the game is ON.
The Ravens also need to sort their priorities before the 2025 draft, scheduled on April 24. It’s free agency already. Can they get everything straight? Stay tuned for more news about your favorite superstars.
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