Ravens reporter seems to confirm major Zay Flowers contract update

Earlier this week, it was reported that "it wouldn't be surprising" if the Baltimore Ravens and wide receiver Zay Flowers came to terms on a contract extension before the 2026 NFL season begins. 

The Ravens picked up Flowers' fifth-year option for 2027 earlier this spring, but it's been somewhat unclear if the two sides have gotten close to inking a multiyear agreement. During the latest edition of the "Baltimore Collective" podcast, Ravens insider Jeff Zrebiec of The Athletic discussed Flowers' future with the organization. 

Zay Flowers will be "a critical piece" of Ravens' offense

"Zay Flowers is going to be just fine," Zrebiec said. "I’ve said this a lot. I think the Ravens are going to sign him to an extension. I think he has earned an extension, and I think he’s going to remain a critical piece of this offense going forward."

Flowers presumably earned a lucrative extension by leading the Ravens last season with 86 receptions, 118 targets and 1,211 receiving yards. He shared the team lead of five touchdown catches with tight end Mark Andrews. 

In a piece published on June 24, ESPN's Jamison Hensley predicted that "Flowers' extension will likely average over $35M per season, which would put him among the four highest-paid wide receivers." It's unknown how much guaranteed money Flowers' camp will want attached to his next deal. 

How Zay Flowers is viewed by the Ravens' new coaching staff

Like other Baltimore players, Flowers is still building his working relationships with first-year Ravens head coach Jesse Minter and first-year offensive coordinator Declan Doyle. While Flowers hasn't played a meaningful snap under Minter and Doyle, it sounds like the 25-year-old impressed members of the team's new coaching staff with how he handled his business during the offseason program. 

"Zay has a great work ethic," Zrebiec continued. "He's well-respected in that building. I think he has grown up a good bit over the last couple of years, and I think he's going to have a huge year. I think the Ravens are going to pay him. I hope they pay him sooner or later..."