Orlovsky Sees Difficult Lamar Jackson Talks Ahead for Ravens

On November 6, ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky said Baltimore’s recent setbacks could lead to difficult discussions between the Ravens and quarterback Lamar Jackson. Jackson injured his right thumb on the opening play of a 36-10 defeat at Buffalo, his first appearance after missing three games with an ankle injury. He later underwent surgery and went on injured reserve, with a possible season-ending absence.

Baltimore’s quarterback problems deepened when backup Tyler Huntley was ruled out for the season with turf toe. Undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano started in a 33-10 loss to Jacksonville, while recently acquired Jacoby Brissett is expected to provide stability. The Ravens have lost four consecutive games and stand 4-5.

Orlovsky said Brissett could help keep the team competitive, but he doubted that would be enough to reach the playoffs. He pointed to Jackson’s contract, which runs through 2027 and carries an $84.34 million cap charge that season. Jackson’s five-year, $260 million extension, signed in 2023, includes clauses barring a trade without his approval and preventing Baltimore from using the franchise tag.

The Ravens may need to lower the cap figure to build the roster, while Jackson could seek greater security after recent injury absences. Possible paths include an extension, another restructure or a trade. A trade before June 1 would leave Baltimore with $74.81 million in dead money, making a later move more practical. Jackson could instead play through 2027 and enter free agency at age 31. Miami has been mentioned as a potential destination if he becomes available.