Zay Flowers Earns Second Pro Bowl Nod-and a Hefty Contract Bump
Zay Flowers just got a double dose of good news-and it could have major implications for the Ravens’ offseason plans.
The third-year wide receiver was named to his second Pro Bowl on Tuesday, a well-earned recognition for a player who's been one of the few bright spots in a Baltimore offense that’s faced its share of ups and downs this season. But the Pro Bowl nod didn’t just add another accolade to Flowers’ resume-it also triggered a significant financial milestone.
Thanks to the NFL’s performance-based contract structure, Flowers’ fifth-year option has now escalated to a projected $28 million. That’s a big jump, and it puts the Ravens on the clock. They’ll have until May 1 to decide whether to pick up that option or let it ride into free agency territory down the line.
Let’s be clear: this isn’t just about a flashy number on a spreadsheet. Flowers has earned every bit of that potential payday.
A Career Year-Even Without the Touchdowns
Through three seasons, Flowers has been the kind of consistent, high-floor receiver that every quarterback wants and every offensive coordinator needs. This year, he’s already set a new personal best with 78 catches-surpassing the 77 and 74 he posted in his first two seasons. That’s steady, reliable production, and it’s come in a year where the Ravens’ passing attack hasn’t exactly been firing on all cylinders.
He’s also just 17 yards shy of a new career high in receiving yardage, sitting at 1,043 heading into the final stretch of the season. That milestone is well within reach, and it’s another indicator of how much he’s grown in Year 3.
The only stat that hasn’t popped? Touchdowns.
Flowers has just two on the year, which might raise some eyebrows at first glance. But context matters.
The Ravens have leaned heavily on their run game in the red zone-especially near the goal line-so it’s not a reflection of Flowers’ ability to create separation or make plays. It’s more about how the offense is structured.
Draft Pick Paying Off
At just 25 years old, Flowers is still in the early chapters of what’s shaping up to be a strong NFL career. When the Ravens selected him No. 22 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft out of Boston College, they were betting on his quickness, route-running, and toughness after the catch. That bet has paid off.
Even in a season where the Ravens haven’t quite hit their stride offensively, Flowers has continued to show up-game in and game out-as a dependable target and a playmaker in space. He’s not just padding stats; he’s helping move the chains and keeping drives alive. That kind of production doesn’t always make the highlight reels, but it’s invaluable on Sundays.
Decision Time in Baltimore
Now comes the business side. With that fifth-year option sitting at $28 million, the Ravens have a decision to make.
Do they lock in the option and keep Flowers under team control through 2028? Or do they start working toward a long-term extension that could give both sides more flexibility?
Either way, Flowers is putting himself in position for a significant payday. Whether it’s the option or a multi-year deal, the numbers are trending in his favor-and the Ravens know it.
He’s been one of the few constants in an otherwise unpredictable season. And if Baltimore’s front office is looking for building blocks as they retool for 2026 and beyond, Zay Flowers is a pretty good place to start.