The NFL free agency period is set to begin on March 15th.
Well, it just got a lot more interesting with one former MVP now able to negotiate with other teams.
That is right, Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson has been given the non-exclusive franchise tag by the team.
Meaning he has the right to negotiate with other teams, and if he agrees to a deal, the Ravens get a chance to match the offer.
If they choose not to, then Baltimore will receive two first-round picks from whatever team lands Jackson.
The Ravens are essentially letting a 26-year-old star quarterback walk out the door.
At least they would get two draft picks in return to try and draft someone as good as Jackson.
There will be plenty of teams interested in Jackson.
One team that has been linked to him in the past was the Atlanta Falcons.
But, according to Dianna Russini, the Falcons will not pursue Jackson.
The Atlanta Falcons will not be pursuing QB Lamar Jackson, per sources.
— Dianna Russini (@diannaESPN) March 7, 2023
It is hard to imagine why the Falcons would not at least see what Jackson wants for a contract.
He would be perfect for their organization, and he would probably make them the favorites in the NFC South.
But, it seems like they have other plans in mind.
It will certainly be interesting to see what teams make Jackson a priority during free agency.
The chances are quite good that he is playing elsewhere next season.
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NFL Fans React To Today’s Lamar Jackson News