1 offseason move each NFL team must make

Baltimore Ravens’ offseason move – Figure out the Lamar Jackson situation

The big cloud hanging over Baltimore right now is the long-term future of Jackson, their franchise quarterback who is due to become a free agent this winter. The Ravens have tried to sign a long-term deal with Jackson but are far apart on guaranteed money, with the former MVP seeking a fully-guaranteed deal like the one Deshaun Watson got from the Cleveland Browns.

Baltimore has been arguing that the Watson deal is an outlier but Jackson, who represents himself, has shown little wiggle room in negotiations. The sides are reportedly over $100 million apart in guaranteed money, which could set up a showdown this winter.

Comments from head coach John Harbaugh have indicated that the team is viewing Jackson as a part of its long-term plans to the point that Jackson will have a big influence on the team’s next offensive coordinator, which is a good sign. The Ravens will likely deploy the franchise tag on Jackson as well if a long-term deal can’t be reached, guaranteeing that he will stay in Baltimore for 2023.

The tag is a tricky solution, however, since it can get cost-prohibitive after repeated use and eventually force Baltimore to let Jackson hit the market. The smart thing to do would be to figure out what the long-term plan is for Jackson and either sign him or explore trade offers if he wants a deal the franchise isn’t comfortable giving.