Lamar Jackson rumors: Shocking outcome on table after trade request

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson could hold out if his trade demands aren’t met, despite the fact he’d lose millions.

For Lamar Jackson to cash the franchise tag-sized check he’d receive from the Ravens, he’ll have to report to Baltimore training camp this summer. While most assume Jackson wants his money, that’s no safe bet.

What Jackson wants most is a long-term contract extension, and to be the highest-paid quarterback in football. The guaranteed money in that offer is said to be a sticking point between Jackson and the Ravens.

By requesting a trade out of Baltimore, Jackson has essentially said his goodbyes to a fanbase that was already tired of the drama. It’s not a shot at Lamar — merely the exhausting reality of seeing his name in the daily news cycle.

Lamar Jackson drama could take a shocking turn

Lamar Jackson doesn’t have any trade suitors right now, as far as we know. For that to occur, Jackson and the Ravens would be best-served waiting until after the NFL Draft, when a hole at the position would become more glaring for rival teams.

The Indianapolis Colts haven’t closed the door on Jackson, and while some executives claim they’re not interested right now, that could change come early May.

If Jackson is not traded or signed long term, then he’ll have to choose between playing out the franchise tag on a lucrative one-year deal, or holding out entirely for a long-term extension that the Ravens don’t appear willing to give.

If either side wavers, this entire situation could be avoided. If not, a holdout is looming, per Pro Football Talk.

A holdout wouldn’t necessarily increase Jackson’s value over time. It would merely signal that he has no intent on playing for the Ravens organization again, even if it means losing money in the process.