Lamar, Ravens discussing deal: 'I expect' to play entire career in Baltimore
Quarterback Lamar Jackson reiterated his intention of remaining with the Baltimore Ravens.
"I expect so," Jackson told reporters Thursday when asked if he plans to play his entire NFL career in Baltimore, according to ESPN's Jamison Hensley.
The 25-year-old passer said he had conversations with general manager Eric DeCosta about a new contract this week, according to The Athletic's Jeff Zrebiec.
However, Jackson said he wasn't sure if he'd report for training camp in July or play in the upcoming season if he doesn't sign a new deal, per Hensley.
Jackson, who negotiates his contract directly, is expected to become one of the highest-paid players in NFL history when he signs his extension. He added that the record contract the Cleveland Browns gave quarterback Deshaun Watson this offseason - a fully guaranteed five-year, $230-million pact - won't affect his negotiations with Baltimore.
"I'm a man of my own," he said. "I don't worry about what those guys did."
Jackson said last year he'd love to be with Baltimore "forever," though Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti said in March that the star signal-caller had yet to engage in extension talks with the team.
The quarterback received criticism in May for not showing up to Baltimore's organized team activities for the first time in his career.
"I just wanted to stay away and just grind," Jackson said. "I just wanted to come back in and see how I felt. I feel good. I asked my guys how would they feel if I stayed home, and they were like, 'That's cool.'"
The 2019 NFL MVP said he worked out with James Proche and Rashod Bateman in February and isn't concerned about chemistry with his receivers. He also plans to continue practicing with his receiving corps until training camp begins.
"I know that Lamar and the receivers and tight ends are going to meet in Florida at Florida Atlantic with Willie Taggart, the head coach down there. He's gonna host them for some throwing. That's gonna be good," Ravens coach John Harbaugh said Thursday.
Jackson, who missed five games due to injury last year, tossed only 16 touchdowns against 13 interceptions across 12 games in 2021. Baltimore traded Marquise Brown, its former No. 1 wide receiver, to the Arizona Cardinals in April.