Commanders Are OUT on Lamar Jackson Trade with Ravens - But WHY?

Several dominos fell on franchise tag deadline day, one being Lamar Jackson's non-exclusive tag. But could that open the door for Washington to lure the quarterback to the nation's capital?

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson was non-exclusive franchise tagged on deadline day, which should interest the Washington Commanders.

And yet, it doesn't. Overwhelmingly come reports from Commanders-tied media folks that it doesn't.

Why not?

Hi. Lamar is not coming here. The end.

— John Keim (@john_keim) March 7, 2023

The respected Kimberley A. Martin of ESPN reported the Commanders "are not likely to pursue" him either.

The respected John Keim wrote, "Hi. Lamar is not coming here. The end.''

We believe you, Kimberly.

We believe you, John.

But ... why are the Commanders not interested?

Considering the tag is non-exclusive, should Washington agree to a deal with Jackson, the franchise would need to part ways with two first-round picks. 

Too much? The Denver Broncos gave up a serious haul for Russell Wilson (two first-round picks, two second-round picks, along with three players). The Cleveland Browns did the same for Deshaun Watson.

Why would the Commanders not explore this? Why not make a bid? 

Eric Bieniemy as offensive coordinator is already expected to lift the Commanders' offense with Sam Howell. ... but imagine if Bieniemy had Jackson under center. Isn't that the type of "splash" that Washington needs to make?

The big sticking point between the Ravens and Jackson has reportedly been fully guaranteed money. Why would a team - Washington or any of the other teams who are mysteriously leaking that they too are out - not make a bid that offered some guaranteed money? Or heck, no guaranteed money?

Washington was close to being a playoff team, with Taylor Heinicke and Carson Wentz and Sam Howell as quarterbacks. The fan base is close to being jazzed up, if only there was a reason beyond the understandable one involving the Bieniemy hire. ... and note that the last time Washington employed a long-term star QB, his name was "Joe Theismann.''

That was 38 years ago.

Should the franchise throw the kitchen sink to get Jackson into the building?

No, we can't accept that as automatic.

But an automatic "no''? Under any circumstance? A brush-off from the Washington media absent an explanation?

No, Washington fans shouldn't accept that position automatically, either,

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