The Atlanta Falcons insist Desmond Ridder will be the team’s starting quarterback in 2023 although head coach Arthur Smith suggested the NFC South franchise have spent the off-season exploring options - which may have included superstar Lamar Jackson.
On Monday, Jackson - whose future has been one of the biggest storylines across the offseason - announced he had requested a trade from the Baltimore Ravens earlier this month on March 2. The Ravens placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on the 26-year-old five days later, allowing teams to negotiate with Jackson while he and the team have until 17 July to agree a multi-year extension.
Other NFL franchises may sign the former MVP to an offer sheet - and Jackson is clearly willing to force a move if needed with his trade request. However, it appears Atlanta will not pursue the quarterback as they feel the position is filled on their roster in Ridder.
