Insider: Jets could 'explore' landing Lamar Jackson if they don't get Aaron Rodgers

A different NFL insider thinks the New York Jets could consider making a move for Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson if Gang Green doesn't land Green Bay Packers star Aaron Rodgers.

While answering reader-submitted questions on Wednesday, Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated wrote he believes the Jets will "explore" acquiring Jackson "if they strike out on Rodgers." Breer added that current Jets general manager Joe Douglas "has close ties to the Ravens" from his time working for that organization. Per the Jets' website, Douglas made his way through Baltimore's personnel department from 2000 through the 2014 season. 

"(Douglas') information on Jackson will be really good, and for all the slings and arrows he’s taken, (new Jets offensive coordinator) Nathaniel Hackett (is) a creative guy who could build an offense for Jackson," Breer continued. 

Last month, NBC Sports' Peter King said he thought the Jets "will at least put their sniffers out and seriously consider Lamar Jackson" if Rodgers decides to either stay with Green Bay, force a trade to a different team or retire. While NFL insider Jason La Canfora named the Jets as a team that could pursue Jackson last week, beat reporter Brian Costello of the New York Post more recently wrote he didn't think Douglas or team owner Woody Johnson would make the necessary sacrifices to get the Most Valuable Player for the 2019 season. 

The Ravens officially used the non-exclusive franchise tag to retain Jackson's rights for 2023 on Tuesday. While he can negotiate with other teams, Baltimore can either match any offer to retain his services or accept two first-round draft picks for the 26-year-old. 

It's widely believed Jackson wants a contract that is at least similar to the fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million deal Deshaun Watson received from the Cleveland Browns last March. As of Wednesday, it was also thought not many quarterback-needy clubs are willing to hand Jackson that type of fully guaranteed cash ahead of this year's draft. 

In the end, the Ravens may be waiting for a team such as the Jets to "settle" the contract dispute between Jackson and Baltimore. Johnson could use the situation as an opportunity to overpay for a young franchise quarterback, especially if Rodgers turns New York down.