As the 2024 NFL season unfolds, Lamar Jackson’s future with the Baltimore Ravens continues to be one of the most compelling storylines in the league. Once seen as a long-term franchise quarterback, Jackson’s tenure with the Ravens has been filled with ups and downs, and analysts are divided on what the next chapter will look like for the dynamic signal-caller. From contract negotiations to performance evaluations, here’s a breakdown of what NFL experts are predicting about Lamar Jackson and his future in Baltimore.
The Road to a New Deal
One of the primary topics surrounding Lamar Jackson’s future is his contract situation. After a lengthy negotiation saga that saw Jackson ultimately sign a lucrative five-year deal in 2023, some analysts are still skeptical about his long-term commitment to the Ravens. While the extension ensured his place in Baltimore for the foreseeable future, there’s growing speculation about whether both sides will find common ground on the structure of the deal down the line. Experts point out that Jackson’s ability to remain healthy and productive is critical in determining if the Ravens’ investment in him will pay off or whether they could part ways after a few more seasons.
The New Offensive System
Jackson’s relationship with the Ravens’ offense has also undergone significant changes in recent years. With the hiring of new offensive coordinator Todd Monken in 2023, many analysts have praised the team for evolving its offense to be more pass-oriented, a shift from the previous run-heavy attack under former coordinator Greg Roman. Monken’s system is seen as a more balanced approach, one that could unlock Jackson’s full potential as a passer. NFL analysts have argued that the success of this new offensive system could be a major factor in determining Jackson’s future with the team. If Jackson thrives in this new setup, it would solidify his place as the Ravens’ franchise quarterback for the long term.
Jackson’s Ability to Adapt
Another critical factor in Jackson’s future with Baltimore is his ability to evolve as a quarterback. While he has consistently been a game-changing talent with his legs, critics have long questioned his development as a passer, especially in big-game situations. However, analysts have noted that Jackson’s ability to adapt to Monken’s offense will be key in securing his legacy. If he can make strides as a more efficient passer and continue to develop his football IQ, experts believe Jackson could take the Ravens to new heights. Analysts are keeping a close eye on whether Jackson can quiet his critics by proving that he is more than just a mobile quarterback.
Injury Concerns and Longevity
Injuries have also been a point of concern for both Jackson and the Ravens. His playing style, which relies heavily on his athleticism, has led to several injuries throughout his career. In 2022, a knee injury caused Jackson to miss the final stretch of the regular season, which led to increased doubts about his durability. While Jackson has remained largely healthy in 2023 and 2024, analysts are still watching closely to see if he can maintain his health moving forward. The longevity of Jackson’s career will be a major factor in determining whether the Ravens stick with him for the long haul or look for a more stable option at quarterback in the future.
Ravens’ Championship Window
Lamar Jackson has led the Ravens to several playoff appearances, but the team has yet to win a Super Bowl with him under center. Many NFL analysts believe Jackson is good enough to lead the Ravens to a championship, but they argue that the team has yet to put together a roster that truly supports him in that pursuit. The Ravens’ championship window remains open, but experts agree that Jackson’s performance in critical moments, particularly in the postseason, will be a decisive factor. If the Ravens can surround him with better weapons and continue to build a top-tier defense, analysts are optimistic that Jackson could be the player to bring the franchise its third Super Bowl title.
The Growing Competition
As Jackson enters the prime of his career, the AFC is becoming an increasingly competitive conference. With young quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, and Trevor Lawrence rising to prominence, the Ravens know they need to keep up with the rapidly evolving landscape of elite quarterbacks. NFL analysts have highlighted the importance of Baltimore maintaining a high level of play around Jackson to remain in the conversation as Super Bowl contenders. While Jackson’s dual-threat ability gives him an edge over many quarterbacks, he’ll need to consistently perform at an MVP level to outpace the growing competition.
The Bottom Line
In the end, Lamar Jackson’s future with the Baltimore Ravens will depend on a variety of factors—his health, his ability to adapt as a passer, the team’s success in putting together a Super Bowl-caliber roster, and the overall direction of the organization. NFL analysts remain divided, with some predicting that Jackson will lead the Ravens to another level of success, while others question whether his style of play will ultimately hinder his chances at winning a championship. One thing is certain: the next few seasons will be critical for both Lamar Jackson and the Ravens as they aim to finally fulfill the promise of a championship with their star quarterback at the helm.
