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Lamar Jackson and his relationship with the Baltimore Ravens took another turn as the team placed a non-exclusive tag on him. The tag means the Ravens star can talk to other teams about a possible new deal.
There have been multiple reports that franchises aren't interested in the 2019 NFL MVP. However, former NFL general manager Michael Lombardi isn't buying the idea. Lombardi commented on The Pat McAfee Show that teams are lying about their interest in the quarterback:
"I think it's lying season in the NFL right now. Like, how can the Atlanta Falcons with a straight face say that they were all in on Deshaun Watson last year and say they're not in on Lamar Jackson, how can Carolina say that they're not in on Lamar Jackson?
"You can negotiate a deal. So it could be less than two number ones. And I think that's what we're at a posturing mode of the NFL. We're not interested in Lamar, frankly, who wouldn't be like I know it's going to cost a lot of money. I know the guarantees a problem, but there's still solutions."
Under the non-exclusive tag, if Jackson signs an offer sheet, Baltimore have five days to match or get two first-round picks as compensation. To Lombardi's point, some teams out there need a franchise quarterback of Jackson's caliber.
Which teams should line up to negotiate with Lamar Jackson?
One franchise linked to the former Louisville Cardinals star is the Atlanta Falcons. Yet, according to ESPN NFL insider Dianna Russini, the Falcons won't pursue the All-Pro signal-caller.
Another team that should talk to Lamar Jackson is the New York Jets. The Jets are rumored to be in the market for a quarterback after being linked to Aaron Rodgers and Derek Carr. Carr was taken off the market after the New Orleans Saints signed him to a four-year, $150 million contract.
Jackson, who started 12 games for the Ravens last season, could be playing elsewhere in the 2023 season. We will see if (or when) teams will pursue the two-time Pro Bowler this offseason.
If you use any of the quotes above, please credit The Pat McAfee Show and H/T Sportskeeda.
