The Baltimore Ravens are playing for the AFC North title and a playoff berth on Sunday Night in Week 18. However, that game against the Pittsburgh Steelers is not the only topic of discussion around Baltimore. Many people are discussing quarterback Lamar Jackson and his future in Baltimore.
He has been injured for most of this season, playing in only 12 games, and his inability to stay on the field has become a significant problem. Additionally, Jackson’s lack of an agent has caused communication issues with the team. All of these are coming together to form a difficult decision for the Ravens this offseason.
NFL Insider Confirms the Smoke Around Lamar Jackson
According to NBC Sports’ Pro Football Talk, Jackson might be trying to find his way onto a different team. If he is not playing in Baltimore, it appears he wants to play for the Miami Dolphins. However, that could prove to be complicated due to cap issues.
Journalist Mike Florio wrote, “There’s a sense in some circles that Jackson would like to play for the Dolphins. With Miami staring at $99 million in dead money over the next two years due to the disastrous Tua Tagovailoa contract, it’s not happening before 2028.”
A trade to the Dolphins, or any other team, seems unlikely this offseason. When healthy, he is still one of the best players in football and a two-time MVP. It would be difficult for the Ravens to move on from him if they do not have a backup plan. Trading Jackson would signal a rebuild in Baltimore, and most people are not ready for that.
Jackson not having an agent is going to present significant problems, currently and in the future. If he wants a reworked contract in Baltimore, he will have to talk directly to the team. If he wants to be traded, will a team looking to acquire him want to engage in negotiations with Jackson instead of an agent?
Week 18 Could Be Franchise Altering
If the Ravens lose to the Steelers in Week 18 and miss the playoffs, the front office may have no choice but to make significant moves. Not only may they discuss trading Jackson, but they could also move on from long-time head coach John Harbaugh.
While Harbaugh has consistently put the team in a position to make the playoffs and compete for a Super Bowl, they have yet to achieve this goal.
Harbaugh has led the Ravens to the playoffs six times since 2015, but has only three playoff wins to show for it. At some point, the Ravens will need to decide whether Harbaugh’s time in Baltimore has run its course and whether it is time for a change.
While Jackson still battles a back injury, it seems unlikely he will play in Week 18. Does that mean we have already seen his final game as a Raven? All NFL fans should keep an eye on Baltimore this offseason, as they could be in for drastic changes.
