Because you don't give up a QB like Lamar and let him walk.

A QB is the absolute singleodt important position on the team. Outside of the HC, they're the leader. The option was to sign Lamar or join the many teams stuck in QB purgatory.

Do you really want to end up like the Colts, or many other teams like that? Because that's likely where we were headed. Even if we were to find another star quarterback through the draft or trade, the contract would look the same regardless, putting the Ravens in the same exact spot eventually because the market is shifting.

Think when it's time for Burrow or Herbert to get paid. Same thing.

There's always going to be risk involved in the NFL. Just because Lamar was injured in back to back seasons doesn't mean he always will in the next five years. Maybe he will, maybe he won't.

Regardless, you don't let talent like that walk. If he walked, the Ravens were destined for mediocrity for years to come.