Ravens GM Eric DeCosta says he’s “optimistic” about getting Zay Flowers’ extension done

The Baltimore Ravens plan to resume on-field work when training camp opens this month, and front-office work could run alongside it as the team looks to lock in a key piece of its offense. On July 17, Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta was asked during an appearance on 105.7 The Fan whether the team would like to complete an extension for wide receiver Zay Flowers before the start of the regular season.

Flowers is eligible for a contract extension under the league’s timing rules for players reaching certain points on their deals. DeCosta indicated that he would prefer to get it done in advance, saying that the conversations with Flowers’ representatives have been productive and that he is “optimistic” about reaching a long-term agreement.

DeCosta’s comments matter because, for a team, receiver extensions are often less about the player’s talent and more about structure and certainty. A long-term deal can help both sides manage roster planning and salary-cap allocation as other contract situations eventually come into focus. It can also reduce the distractions that sometimes accompany contract uncertainty when training camp and the preseason begin.

In practical terms, the Ravens’ willingness to pursue completion before the regular season suggests Baltimore is aiming for stability in its passing-game identity. Flowers’ role as a reliable target is central to how the offense spreads defenses and sustains drives, and keeping that continuity in place can be important even before game-to-game performance is evaluated.

Training camp is the period when teams typically tie their offseason plans to on-field timing, and extensions can influence preparation. When contract work is settled, the player can focus fully on learning and executing the playbook and building chemistry in practice settings that shape early-season execution.

Even with DeCosta’s optimism, nothing about contract negotiations is finalized until both sides complete the paperwork. Fans should expect the process to remain fluid through the rest of the summer as discussions align on terms, timing, and the deal structure that fits the Ravens’ broader roster strategy. What to watch next is whether the Ravens announce the extension before the regular season opener and, if negotiations continue, whether Baltimore reports any additional progress during camp weeks.