The Baltimore Ravens never planned on having Justin Madubuike play on his franchise tag in 2024. It would be bad business to do so, and that is not something the Ravens engage in that often. That is why it was hardly surprising to see Baltimore agree to terms on a new contract with Madbuike. It is a four-year $98 million for Madubuike, according to reports. This keeps Madubuike in Baltimore for the foreseeable future.
As expected, it is a backloaded contract for Madubuike. The cap hit escalates each year – $12.5 million (2024), $18.75 million (2025), $33.25 million (2026), and $33.75 million (2027). There is an out in the contract after the third year with a dead cap hit of $11.25 million.
This was a deal that the Ravens absolutely had to make. Baltimore did not have a lot of wiggle room salary cap-wise before, and they don’t after (about $2.5 million). Having Madubuike’s salary this season go from the $22 million on the tag to $6 million on the new contract provides the Ravens with a little more flexibility. Baltimore still has some work to do, but the possibility of adding an impact player through free agency or trade has increased after Madubuike’s new contract.
Madubuike is coming off a career-high 13 sacks and 12 tackles for loss in 2023. The first-time Pro-Bowler and second-team All-Pro should continue to be a difference-maker for Baltimore’s defense for the duration of his of new contract.
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