Lamar Jackson will spend 2023 'on his couch,' Shannon Sharpe claims after Ravens star's trade request
Lamar Jackson's situation with the Baltimore Ravens continues to get more complicated as the 2023 NFL offseason plays itself out. The two sides have been in a bit of a financial battle, including failed long-term contract negotiations, franchise tags, and demands to be traded. It's unclear how things will conclude, but his time with the Ravens could very well be over.
Jackson's future has been one of the hottest topics of debate for the entire 2023 NFL offseason so far. Shannon Sharpe is one of many around the NFL who have chimed in and given their opinion on how this situation will play out ahead of the 2023 NFL season.
On a recent episode of "Undisputed," Sharpe shared his take on what the future may hold for both Lamar Jackson and the Ravens franchise.
“The Baltimore Ravens are going to field a team in 2023, with or without Lamar Jackson. In order for Lamar Jackson to play football, the Ravens are going to have to say A] We’re willing to give you the compensation that you want, or B] Trade you and allow someone else to give you the compensation. Other than that, Lamar Jackson’s going to be sitting on his couch.”
Lamar Jackson requested a trade on March 2nd; @ShannonSharpe breaks down what it means for the QB and Ravens: https://t.co/Br5DPbMIpj
Shannon Sharpe made it clear that he doesn't see any scenario where Jackson returns to the Ravens in 2023 to play out the season on his franchise tag. Jackson's tag is worth $32.4 million and essentially serves as a one-year contract with the Ravens. Sitting out will forfeit the money, but reduce Jackson's risk of missing out on a major long-term contract if he struggles or gets injured in 2023.
As Sharpe pointed out, while the two sides appear to currently be at a stalemate, the Ravens will field a team for the 2023 NFL season, regardless of what Jackson's future holds.
Who will the Ravens starting QB be in 2023 if Lamar Jackson is out?
Tyler Huntley will most likely be the Ravens' starting quarterback for the upcoming 2023 NFL season. He has served as Jackson's backup, so he already knows their system well. He also has plenty of in-game experience, filling in for Jackson while he was injured. This includes starting the Ravens' game in the NFL Playoffs last year against the Cincinnati Bengals.
The only other realistic scenario currently appears to be a potential trade situation that lands the Ravens one of the top picks in the upcoming 2023 NFL Draft. If they were to receive a high enough pick in return, they may target one of the top quarterback prospects. Anthony Richardson makes some sense in this scenario due to his eltie rushing abilities.