On March 7, the Baltimore Ravens placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on quarterback Lamar Jackson, which would cost the team $32.416 in salary for the 2023 season, and would allow Jackson to negotiate with other teams. If another team were to come to terms with Jackson on a new contract, the Ravens would have five days to match that offer, or lose Jackson to his new team in return for two first-round draft picks.
On Monday, Jackson tweeted out a letter to his fans, which revealed (among other things) that he had requested a trade five days before he was tagged.
A letter to my Fans
I want to first thank you all for all of the love and support you consistently show towards me. All of you are amazing and I appreciate y’all so much. I want you all to know not to believe everything you read about me. Let me personally answer your questions
— Lamar Jackson (@Lj_era8) March 27, 2023
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
Between the tag and now, several other teams came out publicly through their social media accounts to indicate that they would not be interested in such a negotiation. Which is… highly unusual, to say the least.
