Reports: Ravens place non-exclusive franchise tag on QB Lamar Jackson
Mar 7, 2023, 12:48 PM
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - JANUARY 01: Quarterback Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens looks on from the sideline as the Baltimore Ravens play against the Pittsburgh Steelers at M&T Bank Stadium on January 1, 2023 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
(Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
In a surprising turn of events, the Baltimore Ravens have tagged their franchise quarterback Lamar Jackson.
Jackson received the tag from the Ravens Tuesday, as neither side could come to an agreement on a long-term deal. General manager Eric DeCosta and the Ravens’ front office attempted to find a resolution before the deadline. When the sides could not agree, they decided to place the non-exclusive tag on Jackson, hoping to still reach a long-term agreement.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport was first with the news.
“We will continue to negotiate in good faith with Lamar and we are hopeful that we can strike a long-term deal that is fair to both Lamar and the Ravens. Our ultimate goal is to build a championship team with Lamar Jackson leading the way for many years to come,” DeCosta said in a statement.
With the use of the non-exclusive tag, Jackson can now negotiate with any team in free agency. But, Baltimore still retains the option of matching any offer sheet that comes the QB’s way. If the team declines to match, Lamar’s new team will get the player, while also surrendering two first-round draft picks. If Jackson has to play on the tag, it will be a 1-year deal at $32.41 million.
With many teams expected to vie for Jackson’s services, the Atlanta Falcons can be ruled out at the time. Reports surfaced shortly thereafter that Atlanta would not be pursuing Lamar, opting to stick with second-year talent Desmond Ridder under center.
Jackson has been one of the best players in football since joining the NFL in 2018, winning the league MVP in his second season. A two-time Pro Bowler, Jackson has amassed 12,209 passing yards, 101 passing TDs and 38 INTs. A dual-threat player, Jackson has rushed for 4,437 yards and 24 TDs in his NFL career. He holds a 45-16 record as a starting QB.
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