Three potential landing spots for Lamar Jackson
Lamar Jackson is a name who has been linked with a big move away from his current team for a while. His time with the Baltimore Ravens has been so electrifying, and while many see the two as almost inseparable, it is a real possibility that both parties will fail to strike a deal over the star quarterback’s future, with Jackson now requesting a trade.
The 2019 MVP winner, drafted by the Ravens in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft, is a wanted man, but also has reasons that may lead to his departure. Little progress in negotiations, rumours of tensions with the Ravens’ front office and a lack of investment in Baltimore receiving room, Jackson could well be looking for a fresh start elsewhere.
Lamar will probably end up being franchise tagged by the Ravens if a contract doesn’t work itself out. But that could still pave the way for the player to leave via a blockbuster trade this offseason.
Here are three teams who Jackson could join if he leaves the Ravens in 2023.
Miami Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins came on leaps and bounds in 2022, and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa looked to heading in the right direction in terms of his development. But with concerns over Tua’s health and such an extensive injury history, Miami will be pondering whether his availability.
A move for someone like Jackson, would be a huge upgrade for Miami, and give the side that exta bit of X-factor. Mike McDaniel knows how to bring out the best in his players, so it would be fascinating to see how he would maximize the skills of a quarterback who boasts elite athleticism and great arm strength.
Lamar would get his dream wide receiver room, giving him the foundations to be able to take his passing game to the next level.
The big question for this deal be making the money work alongside the Dolphins other contacts, and given that Miami doesn’t have a 2023 first-rounder, a trade would be problematic. But this would be an incredibly exciting prospect for both parties.
New York Jets
The New York Jets have built a strong football team, but still have such a weak quarterback room. Infact, the Jets had possibly the worst QB play of any team in 2022, with Zach Wilson repeatedly losing his starting job. That needs to change in 2023.
Lamar Jackson is the type of player they need to take a real leap as a serious contender in the AFC East. Few teams would offer Jackson such a quick path back to the postseason, with Grade-A pieces at every level. GM Joe Douglas has an extensive history working with the Ravens, spending 15 years with the club as a scout.
Wherever he’s prepared to part with a great deal for one player is another question. And given the Jets recently hiring Nathaniel Hackett as their offensive coordinator, a move to reunite their new coach with Green Bay Packers star Aaron Rodgers seems the more credible option for New York. But Jackson to the Jets is a great fit, and one that is becoming a genuine possibility.
Washington Commanders
Like the Jets, the Commanders have longed for a franchise quarterback for what feels like an eternity. While they have tried to convince us that Sam Howell will be the starter in 2023, Washington must be confident that they have a roster capable of competing in the playoffs with an upgrade at QB.
With one of the better receiver rooms in the league, backed up by an effective bunch of running backs and an improving offensive line, the Commanders are in good shape going forward. This could prove to be the ideal situation for Jackson, particularly with Rivera having work with and got the most out of an elite, athletic quarterback in the past in Cam Newton.
Washington is also in close proximity to the Baltimore community, which could also make a move appealing.