We’ve read several rumors linking the Baltimore Ravens to a trade of disgruntled quarterback Lamar Jackson ever since they placed the franchise tag on him back in March.
Jackson took to social media a short while later and indicated that he requested a trade from the Ravens, leading to further speculation about a move to an AFC rival.
While we’re not 100% sure where that stands, the signing of three-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. on Easter Sunday could change the dynamics some.
According to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport, Jackson was actively recruiting OBJ to Baltimore before the veteran receiver inked a large one-year contract with the organization.
This seems to be a clear indication that Jackson expects to remain with Baltimore for at least the 2023 season. This is especially true given the fact Baltimore is paying Beckham Jr. $15 million in total guarantees after he missed the entire 2022 season due to a torn ACL. You don’t throw out that type of cash at this point in the offseason if your quarterback situation is unsettled.
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Lamar Jackson, Odell Beckham Jr. and the Baltimore Ravens’ dynamic
On the field, OBJ likely couldn’t have found a better fit. Last season saw current free agent Demarcus Robinson lead Baltimore receivers with a mere 48 catches and 458 yards. Devin Duvernay was second with just 37 receptions.
Depending on the status of former first-round pick Rashod Bateman after he missed 11 games to injury as a sophomore, an argument can be made that Beckham Jr. is going to be the Ravens’ No. 1 receiver.
- Odell Beckham Jr. stats: 531 receptions, 7,367 yards, 56 TD
As you can see, OBJ is clearly the Ravens’ most accomplished receiver right now. The hope is that he returns to pre-injury form after suffering the aforementioned torn ACL back in February of 2022.
As for Lamar Jackson, it was always a long shot that he’d be traded. The Indianapolis Colts have been linked to the former NFL MVP. But nothing seems close on that end.
Meanwhile, teams such as the New England Patriots, Atlanta Falcons, Washington Commanders and San Francisco 49ers have made it clear that they have no interest in pursuing him.
What we do know is that everything is not perfect between Jackson and his Baltimore Ravens. Contract talks dating back more than a calendar year have been extremely contentious at times. Most recently, Jackson has taken to a public forum to air his issues.
At the very least, Jackson’s decision to recruit OBJ to Baltimore seems to suggest that he’s playing for the Ravens next season.