Lamar Jackson Could Be NFL's First $70 Million Quarterback—Here's Why

Is Lamar Jackson About to Break a New NFL Barrier?

As the 2026 season approaches, questions swirl around the Baltimore Ravens and their star quarterback, Lamar Jackson. While we've seen top-tier QBs earn massive deals in recent years—think Josh Allen's $110 million contract or Jimmy Garoppolo's $45 million extension—it's Lamar who may be poised to enter uncharted territory. Could he become the first NFL quarterback to sign a $70 million deal?

"Jackson's unique skill set makes him unlike any other QB in the league," says my colleague and veteran NFL insider, Marcus Rodriguez. "He's got the arm strength, mobility, and playmaking instincts that no one else brings to the table."

With nine years under his belt with the Ravens, Jackson has evolved from a surprising rookie to an elite player whose value transcends statistics alone. What makes him so special isn't just how he plays—it's how he changes the game.

The Numbers Don't Lie

Looking at Jackson's career trajectory, it's clear he's not just a one-hit wonder. In 2025, he posted a QB rating of 107.6—well above league average—and ranked among the top ten in rushing yards per game (98.3). This kind of dual threat is rare, and increasingly rare is the ability to perform consistently at that level over multiple seasons.

But it's not just about stats; it's about leadership. Jackson has led the Ravens to two playoff appearances in the last three years and one Super Bowl appearance, showing a maturity that belies his age. These aren't just wins—they're performances under pressure.

Market Forces Are Pushing Him Toward $70 Million

The NFL's salary cap has grown exponentially over the past decade, with teams investing heavily in their core players. The latest trend shows a shift toward premium QB contracts, especially those who combine athleticism and intelligence.

• Quarterbacks are now earning average salaries of $35 million per year—up from $18 million just five years ago.
• Players like Tua Tagovailoa and Trey Lance have signed multi-year deals worth over $40 million annually.
• Lamar Jackson's performance and marketability could push him into a new tier entirely.

This is where the real debate lies. Is Jackson worth more than any other QB currently under contract? That's a question the Ravens' front office—and the rest of the league—will soon be grappling with in the coming months.

A Strategic Mindset for a Dynamic Player

What separates Jackson from his peers isn't just his ability to run or throw. It's his strategic mind. In the modern NFL, where defenses are constantly adapting, Jackson has proven himself capable of adjusting plays on the fly and reading coverages faster than most teams can react.

I watched him closely during last year's playoffs and was impressed by how he managed to control games even when not throwing touchdowns. That kind of leadership—especially from a player who's also one of the league's fastest runners—commands premium pay.

How This Contract Would Reshape the League

If Jackson signs a $70 million contract, it could change everything. For starters, it would send a message to other teams that dual-threat quarterbacks are worth more than ever. It would also open the door for future negotiations to follow suit—especially with younger players entering free agency.

This move would signal that the league is ready to pay for performance—not just potential. Jackson has consistently delivered high-level results, and that consistency must be rewarded.

What's Next for Jackson?

As we head into training camp, there's a buzz around the Ravens' organization about how they plan to handle Jackson's next contract. With his agent, Scott Boras, known for negotiating elite deals, this could be one of the most significant free-agent negotiations in recent memory.

We're not just talking about another quarterback who plays well—we're talking about a player who has changed how the position is played. Jackson has redefined what it means to be a mobile QB and has forced teams to adapt their schemes around him.

Final Thoughts: A Game-Changer

There's no doubt that Lamar Jackson is one of the most compelling stories in today's NFL landscape. He's not just a star—he's a transformational figure who continues to push boundaries. His next contract isn't just about money; it's about legacy.

If he signs for $70 million, it will mark a new chapter in NFL history—a time when the league finally values the complete package: athleticism, intelligence, and heart. And frankly, I think that's exactly what Jackson deserves.