Patriots Pass on Pursuing Lamar Jackson
The New England Patriots are taking a different approach to building their team this offseason. According to sources, the Patriots are not expected to pursue signing or trading for Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson. The Ravens placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on Jackson, which means a team would have to give up two first-round picks if they sign him away from Baltimore.
Patriots Believe in Third-Year Quarterback Mac Jones
Instead of pursuing Jackson, the Patriots are focusing on building around their third-year quarterback Mac Jones. Despite a disappointing season in 2021, the team believes that Jones will do well under veteran offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien who will be calling the shots in 2023.
Patriots Adding More Weapons Around Jones
To support Jones’ development, the Patriots are actively trying to add more weapons around him this offseason. The team has already added wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster, tight end Mike Gesicki, and running back James Robinson in free agency. Moreover, passing on Jackson could allow the team to acquire wide receivers DeAndre Hopkins or Jerry Jeudy via trade.
Building Around Jones is Financially Viable
Building around Jones is a more financially viable option than acquiring Lamar Jackson due to the difference in salary. Additionally, the team is following a similar strategy to the Eagles and the Dolphins in building around their young quarterbacks on rookie contracts.
Owner Robert Kraft Fully Behind Building Around Jones
Patriots owner Robert Kraft is involved in the effort and is fully behind building around Mac Jones instead of pursuing Lamar Jackson.
However, there is still pressure on Jones to deliver this season. The Patriots ranked 26th in offensive yards per game last season and will need significant improvement from their quarterback if they hope to compete for a playoff spot.
Lamar Jackson’s Trade Request and Injury Controversy
At the same time, Maryland native Lamar Jackson could be headed for a blockbuster trade amid recent rumors that he has requested to leave the Baltimore Ravens. Jackson’s exit from the team is likely hastened by ongoing controversies surrounding his recent injury history.
Lamar Jackson Demands a Trade from the Ravens
Lamar Jackson demanded a trade from the Baltimore Ravens on March 2nd before being hit with the non-exclusive franchise tag. Other NFL teams can offer contract deals to Lamar, and the Ravens can either match the offer or receive two first-round picks from the team securing his services.
Indianapolis Colts Potential Suitors for Lamar Jackson
The Indianapolis Colts hold the fourth pick in the draft and need an immediate impact quarterback. This makes them a potential team for a sign-and-trade deal with Lamar. For a sign-and-trade deal to work, the Colts would work with Lamar to determine what kind of deal he wants, have him sign his tag with the Ravens, and then trade for him and give him the desired contract.
Colts Owner Jim Irsay Concerned about Draft-Pick Compensation
However, Colts owner Jim Irsay expressed concern about draft-pick compensation for potentially acquiring Lamar. He has also come out against fully guaranteed contracts that Lamar reportedly sought.
High Stakes Surrounding Sign-and-Trade Deals
Whatever team ends up with Lamar will likely have to pay a high price in terms of draft picks and compensation. Nevertheless, Lamar is seen as one of the top quarterbacks in the league and could significantly elevate any team lucky enough to secure his services.
In conclusion, while Patriots are looking to build around Mac Jones, other teams such as Indianapolis Colts are exploring options dealing with high-stake sign-and-trade deals surrounding potential trade negotiations over Lamar Jackson.
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