Why the Raiders should pursue Lamar Jackson
Lamar Jackson seemed unattainable for the Las Vegas Raiders, but circumstances changed.
Per ESPN's Diana Russini, Las Vegas hasn't eliminated any QB options, including Jackson, since Baltimore created an opportunity when it used the nonexclusive franchise tag on Tuesday.
Unlike the exclusive tag, the nonexclusive tag allows Jackson to negotiate with other teams, who can offer him a contract. Afterward, Baltimore can match any offers or receive two first-round picks as compensation.
The Raiders are desperate for a QB. They only have one under contract (Chase Garbers). Also, Jackson, 26, could rival AFC West foes Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs) and Justin Herbert (Chargers) for a long time.
Las Vegas is an attractive destination for the former league MVP, thanks to six-time Pro Bowl WR Davante Adams. Adams would be an upgrade for Jackson. Baltimore's wide receiving corps ranked 30th in receiving yards last season.
The Raiders have the resources to make a deal. They're $39.7M under the cap, per Spotrac, and have the No. 7 selection in the 2023 NFL Draft. Baltimore could use that draft pick to select its next QB.
Nonetheless, there are factors that may prevent Jackson from landing in Las Vegas.
Baltimore has leverage because it can match a Raiders' offer, helping them avoid negotiations and retaining a QB that has a 45-16 starting record.
There's also a compatibility question with Raiders HC Josh McDaniels. McDaniels may want a pocket-passer since that fits his system.
However, young franchise QBs are commodities, so Las Vegas should go all in if it can acquire one.
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