NFL Mock Draft: Ravens Take Lamar Jackson Insurance Policy in First Round
The NFL Draft is just days away, and the Baltimore Ravens appear to be far from finding a solution to the Lamar Jackson contract standoff.
But, could that come via the draft itself? With a host of talented quarterbacks available, could Baltimore draft an insurance policy on Jackson if things go south with his contract talks?
That is the thinking of NFL.com's Bucky Brooks, who revealed in his latest mock draft that the Ravens could take Jackson's successor in the first round.
”Adding a developmental dual-threat quarterback with superstar potential gives Baltimore a solid insurance policy behind Lamar Jackson,” Brooks writes. “If the former MVP signs a short-term deal or refuses to return to the team, the Ravens have an explosive option in the bullpen waiting to take over the squad.”
Now that seems like a good option. However, Anthony Richardson would have to fall to No.22 when the Ravens pick.
That means several teams in dire need of a quarterback pass on Richardson. Unlikely, yes, but if, on draft night, Richardson is there when Baltimore picks, what will the franchise do?
They already have Tyler Huntley under contract for next season after he signed his tender, and then adding Richardson would be a good move if Jackson doesn't sign his non-exclusive franchise tender.
It would also give the Ravens less incentive to get a deal done with Jackson as they have drafted his eventual successor. It could make Lamar rethink his current situation, but if Baltimore does take the athletic freak in Richardson, the situation could become dire.
Additionally, it would likely end Jackson's tenure in Baltimore, and it could usher in a new era for the Ravens, with Richardson being front and center for Todd Monken's offense.
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