Lamar Jackson signed his blockbuster five-year, $260 million contract extension on Thursday. Afterwards, he addressed reporters for the first time since agreeing to the terms of the record-breaking deal a week ago.
Prior to signing his new extension, the 2019 NFL MVP and the Ravens had been at a stalemate regarding Jackson’s desire to receive a full guaranteed deal. In March, Baltimore imposed the non-exclusive franchise tag on Jackson, which gave both parties until July 17 to secure a multi-year extension.
The two-time Pro Bowler had even requested a trade from the franchise on March 2. However, in officially signing the new extension—one that he achieved without a formal agent—on Thursday, the 26-year-old said he appreciated the constant direct messages and expressions of hope from fans during the negotiation process.