The Atlanta Falcons are feeling the sting of regret after passing on the opportunity to acquire Lamar Jackson during the free agency period. With the Baltimore Ravens 26-year-old quarterback still in negotiations for a long-term contract, team owners who initially balked at his playing style may now be questioning their decision.
Atlanta Falcons’ Interest in Acquiring Lamar Jackson
Last season, rumors circulated that the Atlanta Falcons were interested in acquiring Lamar Jackson. The team had young players that were prime candidates for breakout performance over the next year, and the addition of a superstar like Jackson could be a game-changer for their chances of returning to the playoffs.
Falcons Passed on Lamar Jackson Despite Needing a Quarterback
Despite having a need for a quarterback and plenty of cap space, the Falcons didn’t pursue Jackson in free agency. Team owner Arthur Blank had explored the possibility of signing Deshaun Watson last season but reportedly balked at giving him a fully guaranteed contract. The situation with Lamar Jackson is different – he is the best free agent left on the market and has no serious off-field allegations against him.
Other Teams Ignoring Lamar Jackson’s Talent
Jackson’s talent is well acknowledged by other teams that need a quarterback, but they are opting for other options. Blank believes that building up both offense and defense is essential to winning now and for the next few years, and Jackson taking up too much of the cap space would make this difficult. However, every elite quarterback comes at an expensive price.
Desmond Ridder Will Remain Starting QB Despite Concerns
Blank confirmed that Desmond Ridder will remain as the starting quarterback for the Falcons, despite concerns from some fans about his effectiveness last season. This decision has left many wondering if it was a mistake and if Ridder can bring success to the team following their lackluster performances in recent years.
Lamar Jackson’s Ongoing Contract Negotiations
Jackson’s ongoing contract negotiations have become more personal than prior NFL negotiations. His representation is limited, and he has responded directly to critics during his push for a fully guaranteed long-term contract. The Ravens and Jackson are in a standoff, and eventually, he will have to agree to terms with someone.
Jackson Losing the PR War
Lamar Jackson is losing the PR war, becoming increasingly agitated as he remains without a deal. He lacks loud-mouthed advocates in his corner, and team owners who view his physical playing style as a drawback may be hesitant to prioritize him.
Jackson is a one-man show on offense and defense for the Baltimore Ravens. His reliance on his legs is due to the team’s talent deficit at receiver, and Greg Roman’s power run scheme in tight end and fullback formations. Those concerned about Jackson’s physicality should not be prioritized; he should find an organization that will protect his body.
Could Atlanta Falcons Have Been the Team for Jackson?
The Atlanta Falcons missed out on signing Lamar Jackson, leaving many wondering if he could have been the game-changer they needed to return to their former glory. As negotiations continue, it seems that team owners who initially viewed Lamar Jackson’s playing style as a drawback may now be regretting their decision.
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