NFL rumors: Latest surprise Lamar Jackson destination makes more sense than you think

March 10, 2023 ndowd

Lamar Jackson was signed to the non-exclusive franchise tag by the Baltimore Ravens. Could a surprise team like the Patriots make Jackson an offer he can’t refuse?

The Ravens would rather rival NFL front offices set the market for Lamar Jackson than the player himself. Jackson doesn’t have much representation beyond his family, which puts him at a disadvantage compared to other players when it comes to leverage.

Currently, he has none. Five NFL teams have openly come forward to suggest they don’t want to sign him. It’s absolutely a little sketchy, but there’s a chance those teams are waiting until after the NFL Draft, rather than forking over a record contract to Jackson and forfeiting two first-round picks to the Ravens.

Could the Patriots make sense for Lamar Jackson?

Jason La Canfora spoke with rival executives and some NFL agents which named some potential suitors for Lamar.

After discussing the Lamar Jackson situation with several executives and general managers and agents the same teams keep coming up as those that absolutely should/would sign him to offer sheet and could feasibly do it:

NYJ
ATL
MIA
CAR
DET
IND
HOU
NE
LV
SF

— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) March 8, 2023

While some have already backed out, the New England Patriots remain. There’s no evidence that the Pats are in on Jackson right now. There’s also little evidence that they AREN’T somewhat interested, should the cards fall a certain way.

New England’s current predicament at quarterback is a rough one. Mac Jones is a former first-round pick, but looked downright pouty last season with Matt Patricia leading the offense. The smart play is to give Jones a chance with Bill O’Brien as OC, but what if Bill Belichick chose to be a bit bolder? He won’t be a head coach forever, after all.

Belichick is 70 years old. Robert Kraft is 81. They won’t be in this profession forever, and neither have won a Super Bowl since Tom Brady left. It’s time to take a swing.

The Patriots lack weapons on the outside, but possess a deep backfield. It’s a very similar situation as the Ravens. Jackson could step in right away and be the focal point of New England’s offense, both through the air and on the ground. The Patriots offense is loaded with backs and tight ends to solidify the run game and give Jackson some large targets on the outside.

You have to admit, it makes some sense. Now, can the Patriots wrap their heads around the dollar figure?

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