One of the few teams that appeared to be interested in Lamar Jackson is reportedly out
Speculation has brewed surrounding which teams would be interested in quarterback Lamar Jackson if the Ravens were interested in trading him. Among the speculated teams, many noted the Atlanta Falcons, who are quarterback needy and have $66 million in cap space, per overthecap.com. However, according to a second report, this one from ESPN’s Dianna Russini, the Falcons are not interested in such a move.
The Atlanta Falcons will not be pursuing QB Lamar Jackson, per sources.
— Dianna Russini (@diannaESPN) March 7, 2023
This tracks both with what NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport stated on The Pat McAfee Show on Monday.
“It would take someone unbelievably committed to Lamar Jackson and I’ve looked, and I have not found that team just yet,” Rapoport said.
When prompted about the Falcons, Rapoport denied such option.
“I’ve checked Atlanta,” Rapoport said. “I would never rule out anything, ever. I just don’t get the sense that anything is imminent there.”
“If I’m the Baltimore Ravens I put the exclusive franchise tag on Lamar Jackson”@RapSheet #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/h32NYkFnBJ
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) March 6, 2023
With the Falcons out, there are few teams remaining that would be interested in such a move. They would have the opportunity to negotiate with Jackson directly now, seeing as the Ravens applied the non-exclusive franchise tag on him, but it will take a hefty contract that the Ravens won’t match and two first-round picks.