Lamar Jackson (8) Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports

Former player gives hard truth to Ravens

By Aaron Becker | Last updated Apr 5, 2023 11:29 AM ET

The Ravens have not had the offseason they had imagined with Lamar Jackson's future in Baltimore in doubt and a nine-year NFL veteran gave the reason for the team's struggles.

"Take care of the big domino. You've got to lock up Lamar," Darius Butler said on "The Pat McAfee Show." "All these guys aren't going to pull that trigger unless you've got that quarterback position sewn up ... they're trying to go somewhere and win."

"None of these free agents are gonna sign in Baltimore until they got a deal done with Lamar Jackson" ~ @DariusJButler #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/QMOAIAKcJG
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) April 4, 2023

It's the hard truth but if the Ravens want in on whatever action is left in free agency, they've got to decide on Jackson. Whether that's extending him or trading him for a king's ransom, the remaining free-agents want to know what to expect when signing with the team.

"It sounds like Baltimore has been in play for everybody and they're not able to get the deal done," Pat McAfee added.

The Ravens have reportedly offered free-agent WR Odell Beckham Jr. a contract among others. If they can work things out with Jackson, you've got to think Baltimore is a team Beckham Jr. would seriously consider.

But like Butler said, it all starts with the big domino that is Jackson. So, the waiting game will have to continue.

Aaron Becker

Aaron Becker is a Pittsburgh-based sports journalist, primarily covering the NFL and college football. He previously worked for the Kansas City Chiefs (2021-22), Pittsburgh Steelers (2019-21) and University of Pittsburgh (2018-19). Becker has a B

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