Analysis

7/27/22

2 min read

Lamar Jackson: Is Negotiating His Own Contract A Good Idea?

In this passionate and informative segment, Joe Banner, former President of the Philadelphia Eagles, and Mike Tannenbaum, former GM of the New York Jets and former EVP of the Miami Dolphins, get together to discuss the impact of the Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson representing himself. Jackson is entering perhaps the most critical season of his career, which has included many highlights and accolades. 

Currently set to play on a modest 23 million dollar salary—and with this season’s franchise tag for quarterbacks set at almost 30 million—Jackson could be in line to earn a lot more annually. Jackson has led the Ravens to three playoff appearances, but his playoff record is just 1-3. 

Questioning Jackson's Choice

So, as the former NFL MVP sits on the precipice of a very lucrative second contract, Banner and Tannenbaum discuss his options and explore the journey of other impact players like current Rams linebacker Bobby Wagner and former Seahawks and Buccaneers defensive back Richard Sherman, who have represented themselves in the past. 

Then, another former MVP Quarterback—Rich Gannon—questions whether star players representing themselves have resulted in more successful contract negotiations.

“If you have a Ferrari,” Gannon said. “You don’t take it to Jiffy Lube for an oil change.”  

Meanwhile, Banner and Tannenbaum continue to provide insight into their real-world experiences dealing with a player in negotiations in place of a conventional agent. 

Finally, Banner and Tannenbaum give their overall take and explain why they believe Lamar Jackson representing himself is a mistake, and that he should use a traditional agent. What’s clear to these longtime league executives is the quarterback market has been well-established by the other deals in the past couple of years—and in Kyler Murray’s case, who just signed a $230.5 million extension, recently— so to risk anything with that kind of money on the line might be playing with fire. 


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