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(New York, NY) — With Aaron Rodgers seemingly locked into New York, that leaves one marquee quarterback left on the market; Lamar Jackson.
The 26-year-old is the first NFL MVP to receive the nonexclusive franchise tag, which pays him $32 million next season but importantly allows him to engage in contract negotiations with the rest of the league. If he accepts an offer, the Ravens have five days to match or get two first-round picks as compensation.
While Jackson will certainty test the open market, it appears the Ravens have as well.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reports the Ravens have been “involved in the free agent quarterback market.”
“The Ravens, who face uncertainty around Lamar Jackson’s future, have been involved in the free agent quarterback market,” Fowler said in a tweet. “(They have looked) into options such as Baker Mayfield and Jacoby Brissett before they signed with Tampa and Washington. Baltimore appears to be looking for flexibility.”
While the Ravens seemingly are just completing their due diligence, this is still a developing story.
The Jackson-Baltimore saga has been one of the biggest NFL storylines this offseason as the teams have reportedly been “no where” near a long term extension. What makes the situation even more unique is Jackson doesn’t have an agent. Instead, he has leaned on his mother to conduct contract negations.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on Tuesday that Jackson turned down an offer from Baltimore that included $133 million guaranteed at signing, $175 million guaranteed for injury and $200 million in total guarantees if he’s on the roster on the fifth day of the 2026 league year. However, the former MVP quickly shot the rumor down.
“People throw **** at the wall and hope it stick,” Jackson posted on his twitter.
In what has quickly turned into a messy situation, likely ends in the electrifying quarterback playing on the franchise tag this year.
With a limited market and Jackson’s stock down (injured last two seasons,) it might make sense for both parties to recoup next season.
