The Baltimore Ravens have said they want to re-sign quarterback Lamar Jackson, but they don’t seem willing to pay Jackson the kind of money it would require to get a long-term contract done.
According to a report by the NFL Network, the Ravens are planning to use the franchise tag on Jackson if an extension isn’t signed by March 7, and “there is a possibility other teams could tempt Baltimore to trade the former NFL MVP for a windfall of draft picks, per sources.”
As for potential landing spots, the Falcons are considered by several NFL analysts to be an ideal fit for the 26-year-old quarterback.
A new mock draft by CBS Sports’ Chris Trapasso has Atlanta acquiring Jackson in exchange for a package that includes the team’s No. 8 pick in the 2023 draft:
Trapasso’s mock has the Falcons trading five picks to the Ravens in exchange for Jackson. Atlanta sends two first-round picks (2023 and 2024) to Baltimore, along with two second-round picks (2024 and 2025) and a fourth-rounder in 2025.
While it’s a steep price to pay, the Falcons would only be giving up two first-round picks as opposed to three. Still, with Desmond Ridder in place, the team may feel better keeping its picks and looking to upgrade the team in free agency.