Stephen A. Smith does not believe Lamar Jackson has played his final game for the Baltimore Ravens despite the quarterback facing a potentially season-ending thumb injury.
Jackson is set to undergo surgery after leaving the Ravens' 36-10 defeat to the Buffalo Bills with an injury to his right thumb. Head coach Jesse Minter confirmed the procedure could rule him out for the remainder of the campaign.
The setback has also raised fresh questions about Jackson's long-term future in Baltimore, with the two-time MVP entering the final year of his contract in 2027.
Speaking about Jackson's future, Smith made it clear that he expects the quarterback to return to Baltimore rather than move elsewhere.
"I do not (think he's played his final game for the Ravens)," Smith said.
He then explained why the Ravens would find it difficult to move on from their franchise quarterback, particularly given the difference he makes when available.
"When Lamar Jackson is healthy and he's on the football field, he is electrifying. You saw his QBR, which was top two in the league in the games that he played this year, you saw his passer rating, you saw his yards that he accumulated, and the man is electrifying. And without him, they don't win games. He's just that special. He's that much of a difference maker."
Smith also described Baltimore as a championship contender whenever Jackson is fit, while acknowledging that his recent injury record has become a major concern.
The financial situation is another complication. Jackson's current contract runs through the 2027 season, but his $84.34 million salary cap figure for next year is considered difficult to manage given Baltimore's position.
The Ravens are reportedly $45.94 million over the 2027 cap, while Jackson has no-trade and no-franchise-tag clauses that give him significant control over his future.
ESPN insider Dan Graziano has suggested Baltimore could consider a trade if another extension cannot be agreed, particularly with Jackson approaching the final year of his deal.
However, Smith believes the Ravens should be reluctant to take that risk. Jackson remains one of the NFL's most influential quarterbacks when healthy, and Baltimore's struggles without him have only reinforced his importance.
With surgery now ahead of him, Jackson's immediate priority will be recovering from the thumb injury. His next contract decision could prove just as important for the Ravens.
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