One career year and a franchise tag later, Justin Madubuike is one of the highest-paid defensive tackles in the entire NFL. With less than a full week before free agency begins, the Baltimore Ravens locked down their star defender.
A Look at Justin Madubuike’s Contract Details
It was first reported on Friday afternoon by Adam Schefter of ESPN that Madubuike and the Ravens reached an agreement on a new four-year deal.
While the deal is four years and locks Madubuike up until he’s 30 years old, here’s everything else involved in the contract:
- $98 million ($24.5 million per year)
- $75.5 million in guarantees
- $53.5 million at signing
The deal slots Madubuike as the second-highest-paid defensive tackle in the NFL in APY (average per year), only behind Aaron Donald, who makes $31.67 million per year. He sits ahead of Quinnen Williams ($24 million per year), Jeffery Simmons ($23.5 million per year), Daron Payne, and Dexter Lawrence ($22.5 million per year, each).
Madubuike is the first major signing in the defensive tackle market this offseason. He will be followed by Chris Jones and Christian Wilkins, who will both likely require deals just as large, if not larger.
Madubuike was initially franchise-tagged after the two sides could not come to terms on a new deal before the deadline. However, just a few days later, Madubuike got his major extension following the end of his rookie contract.
Significance of Madubuike Returning to the Ravens
Alongside Jones and Wilkins, Madubuike was one of the best defensive tackles available going into the 2024 free-agency cycle. PFN ranked him as the third-best defensive tackle available behind both Jones and Wilkins while being ahead of Leonard Williams, DJ Reader, Fletcher Cox, and others.
A third-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, Madubuike is a one-time Pro Bowler and second-team All-Pro. He has 153 career tackles, 21.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and five pass deflections.
However, 2023 was a career year for Madubuike. He posted 13 sacks, the most by a Ravens player in nine years. Additionally, he tied an NFL record by recording at least a half-sack in 11 consecutive games.
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“Justin is one of the best defensive tackles in the entire NFL and a cornerstone on our defense,” Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said. “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.”
On top of his individual performance, Madubuike was key to the Ravens’ strong defense in 2023. The Ravens had the sixth-ranked defense in total defense, allowing just 301.4 yards per game. However, the 26 touchdowns allowed were the least in the entire NFL.
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