The Falcons are not expected to pursue quarterback Lamar Jackson in the open market, SI’s Albert Breer confirmed. ESPN’s Dianna Russini was the first to report.
On Tuesday, the Ravens placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on Jackson, which allows the quarterback to negotiate with other teams once free agency begins. If Jackson agrees to a deal with another team, the Ravens have a choice to either match the deal or receive two first-round picks back in exchange for the quarterback.
Jackson can begin to talk with other teams next Monday when the NFL’s legal tampering period for free agents begins, but can not sign any new contract until March 15 at the earliest.
Jackson’s rookie contract expired at the end of last season, but he and Baltimore could not reach an agreement on a new deal ahead of the franchise tag deadline. Last year, Jackson played in 12 games for Baltimore and recorded 20 total touchdowns while going 8–4. His best season so far came in 2019, he won MVP and led the league with 36 passing touchdowns while also rushing for over 1,200 yards.
The Falcons moved on from longtime quarterback Matt Ryan before last year, and started veteran Marcus Mariota for the most of the season, but finished the year with Desmond Ridder at the helm. Those two players combined for 17 passing touchdowns and nine interceptions in 17 games for Atlanta.
