Could the Baltimore Ravens have caught quarterback Lamar Jackson by surprise with their new signing?
The Ravens announced the hiring of new offensive coordinator Todd Monken on Tuesday (February 14). He replaced Greg Roman, who was the team’s offensive coordinator from 2019 to 2022.
While the Ravens welcomed their new offensive playcaller, they reportedly did not integrate Jackson into the hiring process for their new offensive coordinator, according to reporter Jonathan Jones.
By Jones:
“According to sources, it is my understanding that the Ravens did not fully integrate quarterback Lamar Jackson into the hiring process for their new offensive coordinator.”
The Ravens are trying to retain Jackson as he is set to enter free agency once the new league year begins on March 15. There have been contract disputes since last offseason without much progress this offseason.
Jackson wants more guaranteed money than the team is offering. This could be because Deshaun Watson got a five-year, $230 million contract that was fully guaranteed by the Cleveland Browns.
The Ravens could potentially franchise tag Jackson, trade and tag him, or try to trade him. There’s a very slim chance that Jackson will enter free agency and walk away.
The Atlanta Falcons have become the “most aggressive” suitors to get Lamar Jackson
While there’s a good chance Jackson will be traded this offseason, there will be plenty of teams interested in acquiring him. He’ll headline the best QB available this offseason along with Aaron Rodgers and Derek Carr.
According to NFL insider Jason La Canfora, the Atlanta Falcons are the most aggressive suitor to land Jackson in a trade, according to several league executives.
Rumors: Multiple league executives continue to target the #Hawks as the most aggressive potential suitor for #Crows QB Lamar Jackson, for @JasonLaCanfora They went all out on Deshaun Watson last year and almost got him. https://t.co/XxaxQPYOh6
The Falcons could look to improve at the position after a season with Marcus Mariota and Desmond Ridder.
Mariota started most of the season for the team, but was benched late in the season as Ridder went 2-2 in the last four games.
The Falcons were aggressive last offseason in trying to acquire Watson from the Browns before the Browns outbid them.
The Atlanta-based team has the No. 8 overall pick in this year’s draft and could target a young QB in the draft.
The Ravens could re-sign Lamar Jackson, but if they make him available, the Falcons will be up for grabs.
If you use any of the quotes above, please credit Jonathan Jones and H/T Sportskeeda