Eric DeCosta provides a HUGE update on Lamar Jackson’s deal and kicker battle rules for the Baltimore Ravens’ organized team activities.

As the Baltimore Ravens gear up for the 2025 NFL season, much of the focus has been on two pressing issues: the future of franchise quarterback Lamar Jackson and the ongoing battle for the team’s kicker position. During the Ravens’ recent media availability, General Manager Eric DeCosta offered a significant update on both fronts — shedding light on Lamar’s contract negotiations and revealing the team’s approach to the kicker competition heading into Organized Team Activities (OTAs).

The Lamar Jackson Contract Saga: Where Do Things Stand?

Lamar Jackson, the dynamic dual-threat quarterback who electrified the league with his MVP performance in 2019, remains the centerpiece of the Ravens’ offense and their long-term plans. However, his contract status has been a hot topic since the 2023 season, as the Ravens and Jackson’s camp have yet to finalize a long-term extension.

Eric DeCosta’s Update: “We’re Making Progress”

In a candid interview, DeCosta acknowledged the ongoing negotiations and reassured fans that both sides are committed to finding common ground. “We continue to have productive conversations with Lamar and his representatives,” DeCosta said. “Everyone understands the importance of Lamar to this organization. We’re working hard to get a deal done, and there’s positive momentum.”

The GM emphasized that the Ravens want to build a championship-caliber team around Jackson, and securing his future is a foundational step. “Our goal is to keep Lamar here long-term. We want him to know that we believe in him, and we want to provide him the support and resources to win at the highest level.”

The Challenges of the Negotiation

The negotiations have been complicated by several factors:

• Market Value: Lamar Jackson’s unique skill set as a dual-threat quarterback commands a premium in today’s NFL. Finding a contract structure that balances his explosive playmaking ability with financial sustainability has been challenging.
• Salary Cap Constraints: The Ravens must navigate a tight salary cap situation, especially with several key players also approaching contract renewals.
• Performance and Durability Concerns: While Jackson has been dominant, concerns over his long-term durability due to his playing style remain a consideration for the front office.

Despite these hurdles, DeCosta was optimistic about reaching an agreement before training camp. “We’re aligned on the vision. It’s about finding the right deal that works for both sides.”

The Impact of a Lamar Jackson Extension

Securing Lamar Jackson on a long-term contract would have immediate and lasting benefits for the Ravens:

• Stability at Quarterback: Jackson is the lynchpin of Baltimore’s offense. A contract extension would eliminate distractions and provide clarity at the team’s most important position.
• Attracting Free Agents: When the quarterback situation is solid, it’s easier to attract top free agents who want to compete for a championship.
• Building the Roster: The team can better plan around salary cap and roster construction knowing how much cap space Lamar’s contract will consume.

Fans have been waiting anxiously for news on Lamar’s future, and DeCosta’s update provided a welcomed dose of reassurance that progress is underway.

The Kicker Battle: Rules and Expectations at OTAs

While the Lamar Jackson contract update grabbed headlines, DeCosta also addressed the kicker situation — a critical but often overlooked position that can swing games in the NFL.

The Ravens have been in search of a reliable kicker since the departure of longtime veteran Justin Tucker. Though Tucker remains the gold standard in the league, Baltimore’s recent kicking attempts have been more inconsistent.

The Current Situation

Heading into OTAs, the Ravens have several kickers competing for the starting role. The competition includes veterans who have kicked in NFL games and younger players looking to prove themselves. DeCosta explained the process: “We’re going to give every kicker a fair shot. OTAs are about evaluation, fundamentals, and consistency.”

The Rules of Engagement at OTAs

DeCosta outlined how the team plans to manage the kicker battle during this period:

• Equal Opportunities: Each kicker will get an equal number of reps during OTAs to showcase their leg strength, accuracy, and kickoff distance.
• Work on Mechanics: The coaching staff will focus on refining kicking techniques, especially under game-like pressure.
• Mental Toughness: Mental preparation and resilience are critical. Kickers will be evaluated on how they handle stress and rebound from misses.
• Competition Extends Into Training Camp: OTAs are just the start. The battle will continue through training camp, with the final decision expected once preseason games begin.

DeCosta stressed that the coaching staff wants to ensure the team ends up with a kicker who can deliver in clutch moments — a vital aspect in a division and conference known for close, physical games.

The Ravens’ Outlook for 2025: Balancing Star Power and Depth

With these updates from DeCosta, it’s clear the Ravens are focused on two major priorities: locking in their star quarterback and solidifying a consistent kicking game. Both components are vital to building a championship contender in a highly competitive AFC.

The front office is juggling immediate needs with a long-term vision. While signing Lamar Jackson to a contract extension remains paramount, ensuring depth and reliability at the kicking position could be the difference between a playoff berth and an early exit.

What Fans and Analysts Are Saying

Ravens fans have been vocal about Lamar Jackson’s contract saga for years. Many took to social media to praise DeCosta’s transparency and optimism. “Glad to hear they’re still talking,” one fan tweeted. “Lamar is the heart of this team.”

Football analysts noted the importance of patience in these negotiations. “Jackson’s unique skill set means his contract will be one of the biggest in the league,” said an NFL salary cap expert. “The Ravens need to find a structure that rewards Lamar but keeps the team flexible.”

Regarding the kicker battle, analysts underscored the importance of the position. “A good kicker is worth their weight in gold,” one special teams analyst remarked. “The Ravens can’t afford to have a weak spot there.”

How This Shapes the Ravens’ Offseason and Training Camp

The GM’s updates set the tone for a busy offseason ahead. Fans can expect Lamar Jackson to be heavily involved in team activities once a deal is finalized, with his presence uplifting the locker room and offense.

Meanwhile, the kicking competition will heat up, with coaches closely monitoring every practice rep and preseason snap. It’s a position that can often fly under the radar but will be under the microscope as the team aims for a strong start.

The rest of the roster, particularly on defense and the offensive line, will also be evaluated, but these two storylines—Lamar’s contract and the kicker battle—are among the most closely watched.

Eric DeCosta’s recent comments underscore a central theme for the Baltimore Ravens: building a championship team requires both star power and dependable role players. Securing Lamar Jackson’s future remains the lynchpin of the franchise’s strategy, while the kicker competition highlights the ongoing search for consistency in all phases of the game.

As the Ravens prepare for the 2025 season, fans can take comfort in the fact that their leadership is committed to making smart, deliberate decisions. The hope is that these moves will propel Baltimore back into the playoff conversation and, ultimately, the Super Bowl hunt.