Lamar Jackson Won’t Sign Tag, Plans Ravens Holdout, Hints Peter King

The contract standoff between the Baltimore Ravens and star quarterback Lamar Jackson may just be beginning.

The franchise tag deadline would, in an ideal world, mark a positive point in the contract standoff between the Baltimore Ravens and star quarterback Lamar Jackson.

But one thought regarding Tuesday's deadline for teams to use their franchise tags suggests the standoff is just beginning.

In his latest "Football Morning in America" column, NBC Sports' Peter King is suggesting that Jackson could threaten to hold out rather than play for the Ravens on the non-exclusive franchise tag next season.

"And if the Ravens put the non-exclusive tag on Jackson, good luck in forcing him to play in 2023 for $32 million. … after visions of jillions have been dancing in his head," King wrote of Jackson. 

We know that Baltimore is heading toward placing the franchise tag on Jackson simply because as we write this, no long-term deal seems reachable by Tuesday's deadline.

What is the "$32 million'' King is writing about?

That's the resulting guaranteed salary in Baltimore for Jackson using the non-exclusive tag. Tagged players have until July 17 to sign an extension or play under the tag, with the non-exclusive tag allowing Jackson to negotiate with other teams.

If somebody offers more than $32 million? Good for Lamar, as Baltimore could match the offer or accept two first-round draft picks in trade.

The other way: Using the exclusive tag on Jackson, which would cost the Ravens around $45 million and prevent him from negotiating with any other teams.

And another option: An out-and-out trade of the player, with the Atlanta Falcons among the likely bidders.

The Ravens' position, as stated by coach John Harbaugh, is that "Lamar is our quarterback.'' But for that to remain true, he's got to show up to work. And the non-exclusive dollar figure puts that "must'' in some doubt.

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