Ravens’ Uncertain Future After Steelers Loss
Following a surprising defeat to the Steelers in Week 18, several questions loom over the Ravens, particularly regarding their star quarterback and longstanding head coach. There’s talk of potential trades and firings that might take place in the near future.
Lamar Jackson, however, didn’t seem keen to entertain those possibilities right after the game.
“We just lost a game—our division game—and it was crucial for playoff hopes,” he told reporters. “Honestly, I’m not thinking about any of that right now. I’m still processing the loss. That’s not really on my mind.”
When asked about wanting John Harbaugh to return as head coach, Jackson’s response was less than definitive, stating simply, “I’m dumbfounded right now.”
Harbaugh has been the only coach Jackson has known since he was drafted by Baltimore in 2018. Over the years, Harbaugh remained a stable figure, even as Jackson focused on his growth as a two-time MVP quarterback. But, it’s worth noting that their partnership has only brought one appearance in the AFC Championship Game. Harbaugh has been at the helm since 2008, leading the team to a Super Bowl win in 2012. Recently, reports surfaced about discussions regarding his future post-season.
“You’re asking me about next year,” Jackson responded when questioned about Harbaugh’s position. “I’m so wrapped up in what happened tonight that I can’t focus on it right now. I’m still trying to process everything.”
Jackson still has two years remaining on his lucrative five-year contract, which was worth $260 million. Starting in April 2023, his cap hit is expected to climb to $74.5 million in 2026, with some reports suggesting that an extension could help lower that figure.
This season, he participated in 13 games, having thrown for 2,549 yards, with 21 touchdowns and seven interceptions, along with 349 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
In the recent 26-24 defeat to the Steelers, a game that felt like an AFC North title match, Jackson managed to throw for 238 yards and three touchdowns. However, he also threw one interception, ultimately giving the Ravens a shot at a game-winning field goal that Tyler Loop missed from 44 yards.
A report last month from the Baltimore Sun raised concerns that Jackson was staying up late playing video games and dozing off in team meetings, hinting at possible frustration from Harbaugh towards the quarterback.
Nonetheless, Harbaugh characterized his relationship with Jackson as “positive.” He emphasized, “I love him. That’s always been the case. And I know he’s working hard to get back.”
