Why did the Ravens commit to quarterback Joe Flacco for three more years and another $66.4 million? Because they believe he’s the reason they’re a successful franchise.
Ravens General Manager Ozzie Newsome said at a press conference today announcing Flacco’s big new contract that the Ravens believe they owe a huge share of their success to Flacco.
“On his shoulders stands the success of this organization over the last eight years,” Newsome said. “Having Joe for the next six years, I think his best football is ahead of him. Some of the better quarterbacks in the league played their best football in their 30s.”
Flacco won a Super Bowl MVP award with the Ravens, but he has had some down years, including a mediocre season last year before he was lost to a season-ending injury. But Ravens coach John Harbaugh said he thinks the 31-year-old Flacco’s best days are ahead of him.
“I believe it’s only going to get better because of how hard he works,” Harbaugh said.
The Ravens are investing the kind of money into Flacco that suggests they think he’ll lead them to another Super Bowl.