Table of Contents
Introduction
The future of Lamar Jackson, former NFL Most Valuable Player, has been a topic of discussion since the end of the 2021-2022 season. NFL insiders and analysts have speculated whether Jackson will stay with the Baltimore Ravens or sign with another team. Recently, former New Orleans Saints and Miami Dolphins general manager Randy Mueller shared his thoughts on Jackson’s future with The Athletic’s James Boyd, stating that he believes Baltimore is the best fit for the young quarterback.
Who is Randy Mueller?
Mueller, who co-hosts “The Football GM” podcast and is the director of player personnel for the Seattle Sea Dragons of the XFL, believes that Baltimore has already shown a commitment to building around Jackson. He also points out that if Jackson refuses to play for the Ravens, it will cost him $2 million per week come September.
The Franchise Tag
Jackson’s rights for 2023-24 have been retained by Baltimore via the non-exclusive franchise tag, but he is free to negotiate with other teams. The Ravens can match any offer or accept two first-round draft picks for Jackson. However, Jackson has been negotiating without an agent certified by the NFL Players Association and reportedly wants over $230 million in fully guaranteed money.
The Best Fit for Lamar Jackson
Sports finance expert Marc Ganis recently explained that Jackson may be costing himself by continuing to work without an agent. Mueller agrees with that take, citing the awkwardness of negotiating without an agent and the difficulty in making a fully guaranteed deal, among other factors.
The Cost of No Agent
While Mueller believes that the Ravens are the best fit for Jackson, he acknowledges that there may be interest from other teams, especially if a quarterback-needy club misses out on a top-tier prospect during the upcoming NFL Draft. Jackson himself may want to wait until after the draft to make any decisions, according to Mueller.
The New England Patriots
One team that has been mentioned as a potential destination for Jackson is the New England Patriots. With quarterback Mac Jones and head coach Bill Belichick reportedly on rocky terms, it’s possible that either or both could be interested in a divorce before summer training camp sessions open.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the future of Lamar Jackson is uncertain, it seems likely that he will ultimately play for the Baltimore Ravens this coming season. However, there is still a chance that he could sign with another team, and the New England Patriots are one team to keep an eye on. Only time will tell where Jackson ends up, but it’s clear that he has a bright future ahead of him in the NFL.
Read more: Aaron Rodgers: A Comprehensive Look at the NFL Quarterback.
FAQs
Q. What is the franchise tag?
Ans. The franchise tag is a designation that NFL teams can use to retain the rights to a player for one year. It guarantees that the player will be paid a certain amount based on the average of the top five salaries at their position, and it gives the team the right to match any offer the player receives from another team.
Q. What is the benefit of having an agent in NFL negotiations?
Ans. An agent can help a player navigate the complex world of NFL negotiations, ensuring that they get the best possible deal. Agents have experience negotiating contracts and understanding the nuances of the NFL salary cap.
Q. What is the likelihood of Lamar Jackson leaving the Baltimore Ravens?
Ans. The likelihood of Lamar Jackson leaving the Baltimore Ravens is uncertain. While he has yet to sign a long-term contract extension with the team, the Ravens have retained his rights for 2023-24 via the non-exclusive franchise tag. Jackson can speak with other teams about a deal, but Baltimore can match any offer or accept two first-round draft picks for him. Former New Orleans Saints and Miami Dolphins general manager Randy Mueller believes that Jackson will ultimately play for the Ravens this coming season, as they have been committed to building around him.
Q. How much money is Lamar Jackson reportedly seeking? What other teams could potentially be interested in Lamar Jackson?
Lamar Jackson is reportedly seeking over $230 million in fully guaranteed money, according to reports. As for other teams that could potentially be interested in Jackson, it’s difficult to say at this point. While former New Orleans Saints and Miami Dolphins general manager Randy Mueller believes that the New England Patriots could be a potential landing spot, it’s important to keep in mind that Jackson is currently under the non-exclusive franchise tag, meaning any team that signs him would have to give up two first-round draft picks or come to a trade agreement with the Ravens. Additionally, the Ravens have shown a commitment to building around Jackson, making it less likely that they will let him go.