Lamar Jackson Franchise-Tagged by Ravens

NFL Free Agency is in full swing and star quarterback Lamar Jackson has been at the forefront of conversations.

On Tuesday, the Baltimore Ravens placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on Lamar. The deal is worth $32.4 million for the 2023-2024 season. He will have the opportunity to negotiate with other teams, so if he finds a potential suitor, the Ravens can match the offer or take two 1st round picks in return for his departure.

We have used the franchise tag on quarterback Lamar Jackson. pic.twitter.com/AHrqyCgcAI

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) March 7, 2023

Do The Ravens Want Lamar Back?

League fans and the media have criticized the way Baltimore has handled its quarterback situation. Jackson has been one of the top quarterbacks in the league over the past few seasons despite struggling in the playoffs. He’s racked up two pro-bowl selections and he won the MVP award in 2019. Undoubtedly, Jackson is regarded as one of the more athletic quarterbacks in the NFL and his throwing abilities have only improved.

Ravens head coach John Harbaugh is high on Lamar. He consistently praises him and emphasizes how much he wants him to stay with the team. Conversely, this contradicts the team’s decision to place the franchise tag on him and allow other teams to take interest in the quarterback.

Who’s Willing to Take the Gamble?

There has been noise regarding which teams in the league would pay Lamar the high price that he expects. However, teams such as the Dolphins, Falcons and Raiders have already confirmed that they won’t be pursuing him. This is due to their current talent at the position or unwillingness to pay him that much money.

Teams that reportedly will *not* be pursuing a deal for Lamar Jackson include:

▫️Falcons
▫️Dolphins
▫️Panthers
▫️Commanders
▫️Raiders

— Field Yates (@FieldYates) March 7, 2023

With the draft and free agency approaching, teams will begin to express their interest. Jackson now has the opportunity to negotiate with teams and pick where he wants to play. Nonetheless, if he truly believes that he is worth at least $200 million, the right team will be willing to bring him in as its franchise quarterback.