How Old Is Lamar Jackson Right Now
Lamar Jackson was born on January 7, 1997, which makes him 28 years old as of the latest public records. His age places him among the younger elite quarterbacks in the NFL, and he continues to build a career defined by elite rushing and passing production. His current contract and team role reflect his status as one of the league's most dynamic dual-threat players according to Forbes.
Jackson's age also aligns with a key phase of his career where he has moved from a promising rookie to a long-term franchise cornerstone. He has already achieved multiple MVP awards and playoff wins before turning 28, a rare milestone for quarterbacks. His physical prime and current contract extension position him to remain a central figure in the league for years to come.
Lamar Jackson Age and Career Milestones
Early Career and College Years
Jackson played college football at the University of Louisville, where he became the first player in NCAA history to rush for over 1,000 yards and pass for over 3,000 yards in a single season. He declared for the NFL Draft after his junior year and was selected 32nd overall by the Baltimore Ravens in 2018. At 21 years old, he entered the league as a highly touted rookie with a unique skill set that immediately changed offensive schemes.
His early NFL development was marked by learning moments and injuries, but he quickly emerged as a starter by his second season. By 2019, he became the youngest player in NFL history to rush for over 1,000 yards in a season. That same year, he earned his first MVP award, cementing his reputation as a generational talent at a young age.
MVP Awards and Playoff Success
Jackson has won NFL MVP honors twice, in 2019 and 2023, making him one of the youngest players ever to earn multiple MVP awards. His 2023 season included a league-leading 1,136 rushing yards, which set a record for quarterbacks in a single season. He led the Ravens to a top-seeded playoff berth that year, further proving that his prime years are unfolding at an elite level for his age.
In the postseason, Jackson has delivered some of the most efficient performances by any quarterback in NFL history. His ability to extend plays with his legs and make accurate throws on the move has been a defining trait throughout his career. These achievements at a young age have already placed him among the most accomplished quarterbacks of his generation.
Lamar Jackson Current Contract and Team Status
Ravens Contract Extension Details
Jackson signed a five-year contract extension with the Baltimore Ravens in 2023, making him one of the highest-paid quarterbacks in the league. The deal includes significant guarantees and incentives tied to performance milestones and roster bonuses. His current salary and cap hit reflect his status as a franchise quarterback in his prime years per ESPN.
The contract structure also includes protections for both Jackson and the Ravens, with escalators for Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections. This deal ensures financial security while tying his future closely to Baltimore's long-term offensive plans. His age and contract length suggest the team views him as a cornerstone for the next decade of rosters.