The Baltimore Ravens ended one of the least suspenseful (but highest-profile) tag sagas Tuesday, cuffing Lamar Jackson amid a third offseason of negotiations with the former MVP. That will turn attention to what teams are potential suitors for the two-time Pro Bowler.
So far, teams with quarterback needs are standing down. There stands to be interest in Jackson, though it remains to be seen if any would approach his hope at a fully guaranteed contract. The Panthers pursued Deshaun Watson for two off-seasons, but The Athletic’s Joe Person notes (via Twitter) they are not expected to make a push for Jackson. The Washington Commanders offered three first-round picks for Russell Wilson in 2022, but Kimberley Martin of ESPN.com adds they are considered unlikely to go after the five-year Raven (Twitter link).
The Atlanta Falcons also made it pretty clear, based on the numerous reports to emerge since the Ravens slapped the non-exclusive tag on their quarterback, they will not be part of a pursuit. The New York Jets are currently meeting with Aaron Rodgers in California, while the New Orleans Saints signed Derek Carr. As expected, the New York Giants and Seattle Seahawks re-signed Daniel Jones and Geno Smith. This thins the market, but other suitors will loom for a player of Jackson’s talent.
Frank Reich said the Carolina Panthers, in an ideal world, would land a long-term option in the draft. The Panthers have not handed the reins to a rookie since Cam Newton in 2011, spending time on a years-long carousel after cutting the former MVP in 2020. The Commanders just released Carson Wentz and have Taylor Heinicke set to hit free agency. Despite the efforts Ron Rivera’s team made to acquire a high-end veteran last year, they continue to be linked to giving fifth-round pick Sam Howell a legitimate opportunity to win the starting job.
The Miami Dolphins, who had the inside track on Watson amid his legal troubles in 2021, are suddenly looking less committed to Tua Tagovailoa. They are considering all options. Given that Jackson is a South Florida native, it would stand to reason he would be interested in joining his hometown team. How willing the Dolphins are to grant Jackson’s contractual wishes while sending the Ravens at least two first-round picks could be a sticking point here. The Raiders would also seemingly loom for Jackson and hold a top-five cap-space figure ($39.1M as of Tuesday afternoon), but while Josh McDaniels coached Newton in 2020, it would be a transition for his offense to install a player like Jackson.
Teams would need to revamp their offenses to bring in a unique talent like this. It will be interesting to see which ones move into position as a legitimate suitor.
More must-reads: