NFL player Lamar Jackson announced on Monday that he plans to leave the Baltimore Ravens, stating that he had requested a trade from the team as they had not met his value. In an emotional letter posted on Twitter, Jackson explained that he had made the decision that was best for him and his family, but added that he would continue to be close to his fans in Baltimore and the state of Maryland.
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh responded to the news, stating that he had not been aware of the tweet but was following the situation closely and looking forward to a resolution. He emphasized that he was still building an offensive team around Jackson for the new season and was "hopeful" about Jackson returning to work with the team.
Ravens' general manager Eric DeCosta echoed similar sentiments, stating that the team would continue to negotiate in good faith with Jackson and was hopeful of striking a long-term deal that is fair to both parties. The Ravens had placed a non-exclusive franchise tag on Jackson on March 7, after failing to come to a new agreement on a new contract, meaning that he would be able to negotiate a deal with other teams.
In September, Jackson had turned down a sizable offer from Baltimore, which included a guaranteed $133 million at signing, $175 million for injury, and $200 million in total guarantees if he played on the roster on the fifth day of 2026's NFL League. ESPN reported that Jackson wanted a deal similar to that of Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson, who has a five-year contract with $230 million guaranteed.
Reports suggest that Jackson could land with the New England Patriots, with Patriots' owner Robert Kraft receiving a text from musician Meek Mill that Jackson was interested in coming to New England to play for the Patriots. However, Kraft reportedly told Mill that the decision would be up to head coach Bill Belichick.
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