The Baltimore Ravens fell short of expectations in the 2023 season, but Justin Madubuike surely made a huge impact on the field. The defensive tackle’s knack for disrupting opponents’ plays and relentless pursuit of excellence have garnered attention within the league.
The NFL’s new league year will begin next Wednesday, and the Ravens are eyeing securing their elite weapons to shake off the postseason struggle in the upcoming season. The team has already taken a significant step to prevent Madubuike from leaving it by binding him to a new blockbuster contract.
Justin Madubuike signs new contract with Ravens
Baltimore fans can breathe a sigh of relief as Justin Madubuike commits to the Ravens for the foreseeable future. The team has inked him to a lucrative four-year contract worth a $98 million deal. It includes substantial guarantees totaling $75.5 million and an impressive $53.5 million at signing, as reported by CBS Sports.
General Manager Eric DeCosta expressed his enthusiasm by highlighting the footballer’s crucial role in the team’s defensive lineup
“Justin is one of the best defensive tackles in the entire NFL and a cornerstone on our defense. We are thrilled for Justin and his family and equally happy for our fanbase. This is a great way to start the new league year!”
The decision to secure the D-line star’s services with a long-term deal comes after the Ravens initially placed the franchise tag on him, ensuring his presence for the upcoming season at a salary of $22.1 million. By finalizing a multi-year agreement just before the onset of free agency, they gain significant flexibility within their salary cap structure.
Justin Madubuike has steadily elevated his performance since his rookie campaign. From a limited role in his debut season to becoming a full-time starter in 2022, his impact on the field has been unmistakable.
The veteran led the Ravens and all defensive linemen with an impressive tally of 13 sacks in the 2023 season. He has tied an NFL record with at least a half sack in 11 consecutive games and boasts impressive statistics, including 64 QB pressures, 33 QB hits, along with a pressure rate of 13.4%.
How much does Justin Madubuike earn at Ravens?
Justin Madubuike will take in an impressive $24.5 million per year over the course of his new contract. This places him second only to the legendary Aaron Donald, who boasts an astronomical average of $31.6 million.
The veteran now holds the title of the NFL’s highest-paid defensive tackle in terms of total contract value, surpassing notables like Quinnen Williams and even the aforementioned Aaron Donald. While Donald’s contract remains the gold standard with its impressive $95 million guarantee over three years, Madubuike’s $2 million edge over Williams and $3 million edge over Donald.
What makes the Ravens star’s feat even more remarkable is his draft pedigree. He was not a first-round draft selection unlike many of his counterparts at the top of the salary scale. In fact, he is one of only two players in the top 10 highest-paid defensive tackles who did not hear his name called in the first round. As of now, the footballer earned a total of $6,432,110 in his four seasons with the Ravens.
Justin Madubuike’s lucrative new deal comes on the heels of a breakout season. The 2023 season saw him earn his first Pro Bowl nod, along with a second-team All-Pro selection.
