# Mark Andrews' Contract: What You Need to Know
Mark Andrews, the Baltimore Ravens' star tight end, has become a crucial part of their offense. Understanding his contract details provides insight into the team's long-term plans and Andrews' value to the franchise.
## Introduction
Mark Andrews signed a four-year contract extension with the Baltimore Ravens in 2021, solidifying his place as one of the team's key players. This article breaks down the specifics of Andrews' contract, including salary, guarantees, and impact on the Ravens' salary cap. We'll explore his importance to the team and what the contract signifies for his future in Baltimore.
## 1. Contract Overview
Mark Andrews' contract is a four-year extension worth $56 million. It includes a significant signing bonus and guarantees, reflecting his status as a top-tier tight end in the NFL. The deal keeps him with the Ravens through the 2025 season.
## 2. Key Contract Details
### Signing Bonus
A large portion of Andrews' contract came in the form of a signing bonus, providing him with immediate financial security. The exact amount was $17 million.
### Guaranteed Money
The contract includes a substantial amount of guaranteed money, ensuring Andrews is paid even if he's injured or released. This total guarantee is $37.58 million.
### Annual Salary
Andrews' average annual salary is $14 million, placing him among the highest-paid tight ends in the league. This salary reflects his production and importance to the Ravens' offense.
## 3. Year-by-Year Breakdown
Understanding the year-by-year breakdown of Andrews' contract helps illustrate the financial commitment made by the Ravens.
### 2021
* Base Salary: $2 million
* Signing Bonus: $17 million (prorated over the life of the contract)
* Cap Hit: $6.25 million
### 2022
* Base Salary: $7.25 million
* Cap Hit: $11.5 million
### 2023
* Base Salary: $9.75 million
* Cap Hit: $14 million
### 2024
* Base Salary: $13 million
* Cap Hit: $17.25 million
### 2025
* Base Salary: $13.5 million
* Cap Hit: $17.75 million
## 4. Impact on the Ravens' Salary Cap
Andrews' contract has a significant impact on the Ravens' salary cap. The team must carefully manage their spending to accommodate his deal while remaining competitive. His cap hits increase over the years, requiring strategic planning.
## 5. Performance-Based Incentives
### Receiving Yards
Andrews' contract may include incentives based on his receiving yards, rewarding him for high performance. These incentives can add to his total compensation if he meets specific benchmarks.
### Touchdowns
Touchdown-based incentives are also common in NFL contracts. Andrews could earn extra money for reaching certain touchdown milestones each season.
## 6. Mark Andrews' Importance to the Ravens
Andrews is more than just a tight end; he's a key component of the Ravens' passing game and a reliable target for quarterback Lamar Jackson.
### Receiving Threat
As one of the top receiving tight ends in the NFL, Andrews consistently makes crucial catches and gains significant yardage.
### Red Zone Target
Andrews is a primary target in the red zone, where his size and skill make him difficult to defend. His touchdown production is vital to the Ravens' scoring ability.
## 7. Contract Security and Guarantees
The guaranteed money in Andrews' contract provides him with financial security, ensuring he's compensated even in unforeseen circumstances. This level of guarantee reflects the Ravens' commitment to him.
### Injury Protection
Guaranteed money protects Andrews in case of injury, ensuring he receives his salary even if he's unable to play.
### Trade Protection
The contract may include clauses that protect Andrews from being traded without his consent, giving him more control over his career.
## 8. How Andrews' Contract Compares to Other Top Tight Ends
Andrews' contract aligns with those of other top-tier tight ends in the NFL. Comparing his deal to players like George Kittle and Travis Kelce provides context for his market value.
### Market Value
His $14 million average annual salary places him among the highest-paid tight ends, reflecting his elite status.
### Contract Length
The four-year extension is a standard length for NFL contracts, providing both the team and player with long-term stability.
## 9. Future Implications for the Ravens
Andrews' contract has long-term implications for the Ravens, affecting their salary cap and roster-building decisions. His performance will need to justify the investment.
### Roster Construction
The Ravens must balance their spending on Andrews with other roster needs, ensuring they have a competitive team around him.
### Long-Term Planning
His contract is a key piece of the Ravens' long-term financial planning, influencing their ability to sign other players.
## 10. Potential Restructures or Extensions
As Andrews' contract progresses, the Ravens may consider restructuring or extending the deal to manage cap space or reward continued performance.
### Cap Management
Restructuring the contract can create cap space in the short term, but it also pushes money into future years.
### Performance-Based Extensions
If Andrews continues to perform at a high level, the Ravens may offer him another extension to keep him in Baltimore long-term.
## FAQ Section
### What is Mark Andrews' current contract?
Mark Andrews is currently under a four-year, $56 million contract extension with the Baltimore Ravens, signed in 2021.
### How much guaranteed money is in Mark Andrews' contract?
Andrews' contract includes $37.58 million in guaranteed money, providing him with significant financial security.
### What is Mark Andrews' average annual salary?
His average annual salary is $14 million, making him one of the highest-paid tight ends in the NFL.
### How does Mark Andrews' contract affect the Ravens' salary cap?
Andrews' contract has a notable impact on the Ravens' salary cap, requiring careful financial planning to manage his cap hits each year.
### What incentives are included in Mark Andrews' contract?
Andrews' contract may include performance-based incentives, such as those for receiving yards and touchdowns, which can increase his total compensation.
### Could the Ravens restructure Mark Andrews' contract in the future?
Yes, the Ravens could potentially restructure Andrews' contract to create cap space, but this would push cap hits into future years.
## Conclusion
Mark Andrews' contract is a significant investment by the Baltimore Ravens, reflecting his importance to the team. With a $56 million deal, including $37.58 million guaranteed, Andrews is set to be a key player for years to come. His performance and the team's financial planning will be closely tied to this contract. For more details, stay tuned to Ravens’ official announcements and NFL updates.