Agent's Take: What's next between Lamar Jackson, Ravens after yet another injury

Lamar Jackson’s brief return against the Buffalo Bills ended after a single offensive snap when his right thumb was struck by edge rusher Greg Rousseau, forcing the Ravens quarterback onto injured reserve and likely requiring surgery. The injury comes as Jackson enters the fourth year of a five‑year contract that pays $52 million annually and includes a $84.34 million cap hit for the 2027 season, a figure the Ravens deem unsustainable given their $366.74 million total commitments and limited cap space.

His deal also contains a no‑trade clause and prevents Baltimore from designating him as a franchise or transition player after the 2027 season, giving Jackson considerable leverage. Owner Steve Bisciotti had sought an extension before the 2026 league year, but Jackson, who represents himself, has not agreed, prompting a restructuring that freed $39.96 million in 2026 cap room while adding a dummy 2030 year for bonus proration.

The next steps hinge on whether the Ravens can restructure further or negotiate a new contract before the 2027 season.

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