One of the more bizarre stories this NFL offseason has been all the drama surrounding quarterback Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens. Jackson, a former League MVP and routine Pro Bowl caliber quarterback has been perhaps the most dynamic playmaker at the position for years. However, the rocky relationship between Jackson and the Ravens seems to now be irreparably fractured.
On Monday, Jackson took to social media to try to clear up the murkiness surrounding his situation. Jackson openly admitted he officially requested a trade from Baltimore on March 2nd.
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
— Lamar Jackson (@Lj_era8) March 27, 2023
As the rest of the NFL world reacts to Jackson’s comments, Seattle Seahawks safety Quandre Diggs has chimed in as well. Diggs, who is quite active on Twitter, took to the social media platform once again to share his thoughts.
I’m happy for Lamar honestly that’s the best move and probably a year to late cause I would’ve demanded a trade last year.
— Nino (@qdiggs6) March 27, 2023
I mentioned in the first line this was a bizarre situation for a reason. There has been a bit of mystery with Jackson as of late. From missing the final month of the season with a knee injury that was only reportedly a 1-3 week recovery, to confusing surrounding his negotiating representation. It’s a good thing Jackson took to Twitter to give a bit of clarity himself, because the Ravens’ side of the story makes less sense.
Baltimore seems unwilling to keep arguably their best quarterback in franchise history in the Charm City – despite the fact Jackson has given them a 45-16 record while starting and helped guide them to the postseason three times. Without Jackson under center, the Ravens are a drastically different team.
In 2021, Jackson was injured in Week 14 and missed the remainder of the season. Baltimore was 8-4 going into that game, and proceeded to lose their last five matchups to finish 8-9 on the season. Last year, the Ravens were similarly 8-4, but limped to the playoffs on a 2-3 record. They gave the Cincinnati Bengals a fair fight in the Wild Card, but it’s obvious they would have won if Jackson was quarterback.
Yet despite this, Baltimore remains unwilling to keep their franchise quarterback at the price he is asking.
With this in mind, it’s easy to understand why Diggs feels sympathy for Jackson.
