Lamar Jackson signs a massive contract renewal with the Baltimore Ravens in June 2025, defending Mark Andrews and vowing to bring more championships to the city.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
It was a statement day for Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens. As mandatory minicamp got underway, the franchise quarterback didn't just reaffirm his commitment to the team with a massive contract renewal; he used his platform to fiercely defend a key teammate, sending a clear message that leadership in Baltimore starts at the top. With new weapons integrating and the team getting healthy, the Ravens' Super Bowl ambitions feel more tangible than ever.
'I want to bring more championships to this city.' - Lamar Jackson
The biggest news of the day was the official confirmation of Lamar Jackson's $36 million contract renewal. While the numbers are significant, the real story is the sentiment behind the deal. Jackson broke his silence on the matter, making it clear this was about more than just money. 'I want to bring more championships to this city,' he stated, effectively ending any speculation about his long-term future. For the Ravens, it provides stability at the most important position and solidifies Jackson, who led the team to a 12-5 record and an AFC North title last season, as the undisputed face of the franchise for years to come.
Fresh off securing his own future, Jackson immediately went to bat for his top target, tight end Mark Andrews. Addressing the media after practice, Jackson took aim at recent social media criticism directed at Andrews, calling for it to stop. He praised the tight end's work ethic and leadership throughout the offseason, emphasizing his crucial role in the offense. It was a powerful display of leadership, demonstrating that Jackson's commitment extends not just to the organization, but to the players in the locker room beside him.
Part of building a championship-caliber team is adding elite talent, and the Ravens believe they've done just that with DeAndre Hopkins. The veteran wide receiver is already making waves, with coaches touting him as a potential 'secret weapon' in the evolving offense. Hopkins is embracing his new role as a game-changer, and his adaptability and leadership have been praised by teammates. His presence provides Jackson with another dynamic threat, diversifying a passing attack that will be critical for a deep playoff run.
While the stars made headlines, the rest of the roster got down to business as mandatory minicamp kicked off. Coach John Harbaugh provided some key updates, noting that defensive backs Beau Brade and Chidobe Awuzie are nursing minor ankle injuries but are expected back soon. Meanwhile, the team's top draft pick, edge rusher Mike Green, remains the only unsigned rookie. Despite this, Harbaugh stated the former FBS sack leader is 'fine' and participating. For now, the injury report is light and the team is optimistic about its depth as it ramps up for training camp.
With the franchise quarterback locked in, motivated, and leading from the front, the message from Owings Mills is clear: the Ravens are all-in on fulfilling Lamar's promise. The minor bumps and bruises of minicamp are just part of the process. The real work of building on last season's 12-5, AFC North-winning campaign has begun, and every move, from contract extensions to new offensive schemes, is pointed toward one singular goal: bringing another championship to Baltimore.