Lamar Jackson potential trade could shake up first round of 2023 NFL Draft
Lamar Jackson formally requested a trade from the Baltimore Ravens during the 2023 NFL offseason after failing to agree to a long-term contract extension. While the Ravens claim they have every intention of keeping their superstar quarterback in Baltimore, his future with the team is in serious jeopardy.
The two sides don't appear to be close to making a deal any time soon. Unless something significantly changes in the next few weeks, it's entirely possible that Lamar Jackson has already played his last snap for the Ravens. This possibility is even more realistic with the 2023 NFL draft less than a month away.
NFL analyst Josh Edwards recently discussed how a Jackson trade could affect the upcoming draft:
"It is unknown who, if anyone, has interest in acquiring the quarterback. If he were to be traded, the trade would presumably include a first-round pick and that throws a wrench into Day 1 of the 2023 NFL Draft. Would Baltimore use its newfound draft capital to select a quarterback? It may not have a dramatic impact on how the actual draft plays out but it would certainly create a stir."
Several teams picking towards the top of the draft are in need of a new quarterback for the 2023 NFL season, including the Indianapolis Colts, Houston Texans, and Carolina Panthers. Others are rumored to be exploring the idea of going in a different direction in the most important positions in the NFL, including the New England Patriots.
Lamar Jackson has requested a trade. twitter.com/lj_era8/status…
Complicating the entire situation is the fact that no team has publicly expressed direct interest in acquiring Lamar Jackson. This is a strange development, especially considering he's a former NFL MVP winner and still just 26 years old. He's young enough, extremely talented, and a proven weapon in the NFL. Hence, one of the quarterback-needy teams could potentially pivot to him prior to the draft.
Who will be the Ravens QB in 2023 if they move on from Lamar Jackson?
If the Ravens do in fact trade away Lamar Jackson during the 2023 NFL offseason, two potential options jump out as the most logical replacements. Tyler Huntley has already received playing time in Jackson's absence, including during the NFL Playoffs last year.
While Huntley would appear to be the frontrunner, that could change if the Ravens acquire a high pick in the first round of the 2023 NFL draft in a potential trade. They could then pivot to one of the top quarterback prospects instead. Anthony Richardson would seem to make the most sense, as his dynamic rushing abilities will fit in best with the Ravens' current offensive scheme.