OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- Prominently displayed on the wall near the doors to the Baltimore Ravens' practice field is the phrase: "Be The Best."

The motto originates from coach Jesse Minter's January introductory press conference, where he stated in his opening remarks, "We will strive to become the top team in the National Football League."

The Ravens are widely anticipated to rank among the league's elite. They boast the second-shortest Super Bowl odds at +950 - trailing only the Los Angeles Rams - and lead the favorites for the most regular-season victories at +800, according to DraftKings Sportsbook.

However, Baltimore has substantial offseason homework to solidify its status as a championship contender this year and moving forward. With organized team activities set to start next week, the team must confront major uncertainties, including negotiating a contract extension for quarterback Lamar Jackson, selecting a starting center, and assessing Pro Bowl defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike's availability.

Can the Ravens finalize a contract extension with Lamar Jackson?

Only Jackson and Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta can truly resolve this, and both have remained tight-lipped on talks. Yet, shortly after the draft, DeCosta voiced confidence that a new agreement with the two-time NFL Most Valuable Player would materialize.

"I'm confident Lamar will remain with us," DeCosta noted. "He adores the team, the city, and our fans. When I envision the Ravens, I see Lamar Jackson leading on the field."

Baltimore seeks to extend Jackson with two years left on his current deal. His salary cap figure surges to $84.34 million next offseason - the NFL's second-highest - consuming 26% of the 2027 cap space.

This scenario is distinctive since Jackson lacks an agent and negotiates solo. Concerns about his long-term stay grew in March when no deal emerged despite owner Steve Bisciotti urging completion before free agency.

A positive development is Jackson's participation in the voluntary offseason workout program and initial minicamp - a shift from prior years when he often skipped them.

"I'm truly enjoying building a rapport with Lamar," said Ravens offensive coordinator Declan Doyle during last month's new uniform reveal. "Relationships require time to foster trust, but so far, he's enthusiastic, I'm excited, and I look forward to continued collaboration."

Who will start at center for Baltimore?

This represents the roster's largest gap, especially after passing on a center with all 11 draft picks. The Ravens transitioned from a three-time Pro Bowl standout, Tyler Linderbaum - now with the Las Vegas Raiders via free agency - to uncertainty protecting Jackson.

The eventual starter might still play for another team.

"Center is a position in flux right now," DeCosta acknowledged. "We're actively evaluating options."

He continued, "We may explore trades or other moves to fill that spot."

No center was drafted because top prospects - Iowa's Logan Jones and Florida's Jake Slaughter - went earlier than expected. Baltimore avoided a second-round investment, and both were off the board by their third-round pick at No. 80.

With Jones now a second-round Bear, Chicago might trade veteran Garrett Bradbury, a seven-year starter obtained from the New England Patriots in March for a 2027 fifth-rounder.

Currently, Danny Pinter leads in experience with 10 starts over five seasons. Fellow centers Jovaughn Gwyn, Corey Bullock, and undrafted rookie Nick Dawkins lack NFL starting experience.

"We have a strategy," DeCosta assured. "I trust Declan and offensive line coach Dwayne Ledford immensely - their assurance bolsters mine. Our scouts excel at unearthing talent. By September, we'll field our strongest lineup."

Will Pro Bowl defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike suit up this season?

Madubuike's recent neck surgery offers hope for a 2026 return, per medical opinion, but no firm confirmation exists on recovery from the injury that cost him 15 games last year.

"Little to add there," DeCosta said last month regarding reports. "He's participating in offseason activities now, but that's private. It's his call to discuss."

Over seven months, Ravens executives have stayed ambiguous on his timeline, and Madubuike hasn't addressed media since. The key defensive line addition is Calais Campbell's one-year, $5.5 million pact last week. Seventh-rounder Rayshaun Benny is the sole drafted lineman.

Madubuike's return would supercharge the defense, particularly pass rush. In 2024 with him full-time, Baltimore notched 54 sacks - second in the NFL. His 2025 absence correlated with 30 sacks, 28th-ranked.

"Our policy safeguards player privacy on health matters," DeCosta explained. "But he's present and, to my knowledge, committed - we're thrilled."