OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The Baltimore Ravens have long treated the biggest storyline looming over the franchise -- whether quarterback Lamar Jackson will get a contract extension -- as a formality. Team officials have confidently framed it as a matter of when, and not if, a new deal gets done with Jackson.
But for a second straight offseason, there’s no indication that a long-term commitment to Jackson is imminent.
So, what’s the hold up?
In Friday's season-ending news conference, Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said it's been "an unusual negotiation" because he's dealing directly with Jackson, who is among the few players in the NFL without a traditional sports agent.