The final mandatory minicamp practice took place for the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday, and many were anticipating what quarterback Lamar Jackson would have to say when answering questions by the media for the first time in months. There have been a plethora of rumors surrounding Jackson’s contract situation, and multiple questions about the topic were asked to the quarterback on Thursday.
Many analysts around the league have said that Jackson shouldn’t step on the field without a contract extension. When asked if he agreed with that notion, Jackson kept his answer short and simple, saying that he doesn’t buy into it at all.
"I play football, that's what I'm here for." @Lj_era8 pic.twitter.com/MAY5retYgt
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) June 16, 2022
“No, no, I don’t buy into it at all. I play football; that’s what I’m here for.”
Jackson made it clear that he is not buying into the noise surrounding what others believe he should do while he waits for a new deal. The quarterback has shown to be one of the classiest individuals in the league, and the way he handles the situation shows that.
As it currently stands, Jackson will play on the fifth-year option in 2022. Many believe the former league MVP wants to play out the 2022 season before negotiating on a new contract. However, Jackson said on Thursday that there are “conversations” surrounding a deal. Regardless, when the time comes Jackson will most-likely earn a contract that makes history, and his play on the field should back up whatever the details of the contract end up being.