Baltimore, MD – May 24, 2025 – The Baltimore Ravens are bracing for a contract negotiation that could rewrite the market — and reshape the future of their defense.
Their do-it-all defensive back, a former first-round pick and two-time All-Pro, is quietly becoming the top candidate to reset the safety position's value leaguewide. Sources indicate Baltimore is preparing for a potential extension that would surpass the current high-water mark of $21.5 million annually — held by Detroit Lions’ Kerby Joseph.
And this rising Ravens star has all the leverage.
“He’s a stat sheet stuffer. A field general. A tone-setter. If anyone’s going to break the bank, it’s him,” wrote CBS Sports’ Tyler Sullivan in a recent contract forecast.
🔍 The Case for History
After just three seasons, the Notre Dame product has become the heart of Baltimore’s secondary — and arguably the entire defense. He’s led the team in key categories, earned back-to-back Pro Bowl nods, and was pivotal in the unit’s second-half resurgence last year.
He’s not just chasing sacks or INTs. He’s dictating game scripts.
The Ravens have already picked up his fifth-year option — standard protocol for top-tier talents. But the real move comes next: the extension. And if it happens this summer, don’t be surprised if it sets a new benchmark for safeties leaguewide.
💸 A Storm is Coming
Still, there's a wrinkle.
Baltimore is also eyeing a looming financial milestone with their quarterback — who may soon sign a new NFL-record deal of his own. With that kind of quarterback contract in play, managing the salary cap becomes a high-stakes puzzle.
“You can keep both. But it’s going to take creativity… and a lot of guaranteed money,” an anonymous AFC exec said.
🧩 The Window Is Now
With a loaded AFC and expectations soaring, Baltimore knows the value of continuity — especially on defense. This star DB isn’t just worth every cent — he might be the key to holding the Ravens’ Super Bowl window open.
Whether it’s this summer or next, this deal is coming.
And when it does, expect the league to follow. Because once again, Baltimore’s defense is about to set the tone — on and off the field.
