The Baltimore Ravens announced on Friday that they have signed veteran nose tackle John Jenkins to a one-year contract extension worth $2.1 million. This marks Jenkins’ first contract extension in his lengthy 13-year career in the NFL, which has included stints with seven different teams.
Jenkins, who stands at 6 feet 3 inches and weighs 360 pounds, expressed his excitement about the extension. “I’m excited,” he said. “Ya’ll know I been around the whole America and having my first extension in 13 years, I’m excited.” Throughout his career, Jenkins has primarily operated on one-year deals, making this announcement particularly significant for him.
Reflecting on his journey, Jenkins admitted that he had begun contemplating life after football due to the challenges that come with such a demanding position. “Being in this position, 13 years, you start thinking about life after football,” he explained. Conversations with the Ravens’ front office helped reassure him that he still had the capability to contribute at a high level, leading to the extension.
Strong Performance This Season
Jenkins’ extension comes on the heels of a solid performance this season. Over the course of 16 games, he has recorded 36 tackles, including three tackles for loss and two forced fumbles. His performance has garnered a favorable grade from Pro Football Focus, marking his best showing since 2021. Jenkins has been instrumental in bolstering the Ravens’ run defense, which has excelled in recent months.
The Ravens’ decision to extend Jenkins is particularly crucial given the injuries the team has faced this season. After losing Nnamdi Madubuike to a season-ending neck injury in Week 2 and Broderick Washington to an Achilles tendon injury, Jenkins has stepped up as a reliable presence in the middle of the defensive line. With Madubuike’s future still uncertain, Jenkins’ continuity alongside Travis Jones, who signed a three-year extension last month, provides the Ravens with a more stable defensive front.
Jenkins appreciates the trust the organization has shown in him. “They believed in me to not bring somebody else in,” he stated. “That says a lot when things like that happen.”
The Road Ahead
At 36 years old, Jenkins acknowledges the physical toll of playing in one of the most demanding positions in football. He offers a candid perspective on the challenges of his role, emphasizing the less glamorous aspects of being a nose tackle. “Just know that it’s not very glorifying,” he noted, adding a lighthearted comparison with teammate Pat Ricard, whom he calls “the nose tackle of the offense.”
As Jenkins continues to make his mark on the field, he remains grateful for the opportunity to extend his career. His journey highlights the resilience and determination that define successful athletes, particularly in a sport known for its physical demands.
With the Ravens gearing up for the remainder of the season, Jenkins’ experience and leadership will be critical as they aim for a strong finish.
