Lamar Jackson announces request for trade from Baltimore Ravens
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson took to Twitter on Monday morning to announce that he formally requested a trade from the Ravens on March 2 after the organization failed to “meet his value.”
Jackson shared the news along with a shoutout to the Baltimore fan base as John Harbaugh met with the media at the NFL annual meeting. Despite the quarterback’s requested trade, Harbaugh told reporters, “That’s my guy,” and that he expects Jackson back in 2023.
“A letter to my Fans,” Jackson began. “I want to first thank you all for all of the love and support you consistently show towards me. All of you are amazing and I appreciate y’all so much. I want you all to know not to believe everything you read about me. Let me personally answer your questions…
“In regards to my future plans. As of March 2nd I requested a trade from the Ravens organization for which the Ravens has not been interested in meeting my value, any and everyone that’s has met me or been around me know I love the game of football and my dream is to help a team…
“win the super bowl. You all are great but I had to make a business decision that was best for my family and I. No matter how far I go or where my career takes me, I’ll continue to be close to my fans of Baltimore Flock nation and the entire State of Maryland. You’ll See me again.”
Jackson, Ravens at an impasse
Jackson, drafted No. 32 overall by the Ravens in the 2018 NFL Draft, has spent his entire career in Baltimore so far.
The Ravens placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on the starting quarterback five days after he requested the trade. By doing so, the Ravens can continue to work on a long-term deal with Jackson with the ability to match any offer sheet that comes in from another team.
Baltimore general manager Eric DeCosta released a statement regarding the decision and reaffirmed the desire to work out a contract.
“Having not yet reached a long-term deal with Lamar Jackson, we will use the franchise tag,” DeCosta said. “There have been many instances across the league and in Baltimore when a player has been designated with the franchise tag and signed a long-term deal that same year. We will continue to negotiate in good faith with Lamar, and we are hopeful that we can strike a long-term deal that is fair to both Lamar and the Ravens. Our ultimate goal is to build a championship team with Lamar Jackson leading the way for many years to come.”