NFL Exec Calls Out Lamar Jackson Not Having an Agent as 'A Big Negative' amid Injury

One NFL team executive questioned whether working without an agent will continue to serve in Lamar Jackson's best interests as the star quarterback potentially heads into contract negotiations with the Baltimore Ravens this offseason.

"The fact that Lamar does not have an agent is really a big negative," the exec told The Athletic's Mike Sando. "Who is talking to Lamar? Who is having the honest conversations? Where is he getting advice in terms of how to deal with these injury things? There needs to be a buffer there for that process to work."

The last time around, Jackson and the Ravens came to terms on a five-year, $260 million deal that included $185 million in guarantees. While the two-time MVP failed to secure a fully guaranteed contract, he unquestionably did well for himself.

Negotiations were tense, though, and Jackson confirmed in March 2023 he had requested a trade from Baltimore.

Now, the veteran signal-caller is two years away from free agency, and the Ravens would presumably like to lower his $74.5 million salary cap hit in 2026 and 2027.

The NFL executive emphasized the benefits of having a certified agent to serve as an intermediary if discussions unfold.

"A quarterback has all kinds of ongoing issues that other positions do not face," they said. "The top agents have experience with those things. That advice is important, even to the point of sometimes agreeing with the team and letting the player know, 'No, you can't do it this way.' With Lamar, he may feel he knows best."

How Jackson's 2025 season has unfolded will further complicate things.

The 28-year-old has thrown for 2,311 yards, 18 touchdowns and six interceptions, and his 28.3 rushing yards per contest are a career low. He's not performing up to his incredibly high standards.

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Jackson has also missed four games because of back and hamstring injuries. As a full-time starter, he has played an entire regular season just once since entering the NFL in 2018.

One agent suggested to Sando the Ravens could trade Jackson and get a much cheaper replacement if push comes to shove.

"Get Malik [Willis] for $15 million a year, trade Lamar, get your three 1s and a player, and now you can justify it, thinking we have a similar style quarterback who is not as good but is younger with way fewer miles," they said.

Agent or no agent, a contract standoff between the Ravens and Jackson would be a big story and a delicate situation for everyone involved.