NFL Mock Draft: Ravens Trade Lamar Jackson for Top Rookie QB?

The Baltimore Ravens may consider trading quarterback Lamar Jackson during the NFL Draft so they can select his replacement.

The Baltimore Ravens currently find themselves in a pickle, trying to negotiate a potentially historic long-term contract extension with a disgruntled franchise quarterback Lamar Jackson, while also trying to add to a roster that has fallen short of expectations of making a long playoff run.

As the negotiations drag on following the Ravens' placing the non-exclusive franchise tag on Jackson, he announced publicly that he requested a trade away from the franchise as he feels Baltimore isn't willing to pay him what he feels his value is. After free agency passed without much action from the franchise, the NFL Draft seems to loom large. 

The Ravens have needs at wide receiver, cornerback, and now quarterback? With the No. 22 pick, it seems the Ravens are likely unable to draft a franchise signal-caller, which may force their hand to follow through on the wishes of Jackson and trade him. 

In a recent mock draft from CBS Sports, the Ravens do just that, sending Jackson to the Indianapolis Colts in exchange for the No. 4 overall pick, which would put them in a prime position to select his replacement. 

CBS has Baltimore taking Anthony Richardson, the often labeled "freak" prospect, who, despite possessing all the traits of an NFL quarterback - like a strong arm and unreal athleticism at 6-4, 244 pounds - there are questions after just one full season as a starter.

Suppose new offensive coordinator Todd Monken could work out the flaws of Richardson's game, like his accuracy and decision-making. In that case, the former Florida Gator arguably has the highest ceiling of any quarterback in the draft class. 

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