Image Source: Mike Florio
Key Takeaways
- Lamar Jackson’s future with the Ravens is uncertain, and he may not return to the team in 2026
- The Raiders are a potential destination for Jackson, with the team having the cap space and cash to offer a market-level deal
- Jackson has the power to control his own destiny, with a no-trade clause and the ability to refuse any contract extension offers
- The Ravens and Raiders could agree to a trade at any time, with the understanding that it will be finalized on March 11
- The coaching carousel and quarterback carousel are closely tied, with Jackson’s future a major factor in both searches
Introduction to the Coaching Carousel
The NFL’s coaching carousel is in full swing, with several teams searching for new head coaches. However, one quarterback could turn the entire process into a rollercoaster: Lamar Jackson. As Mike Preston of the Baltimore Sun noted, "Lamar Jackson may not be thrilled with the ultimate selection of a head coach" and may be looking for a fresh start after eight years with the Ravens. This uncertainty has led to speculation about Jackson’s future, with some wondering if he will return to the Ravens in 2026.
Potential Destinations for Lamar Jackson
Two potential destinations for Jackson are the Miami Dolphins and the Las Vegas Raiders. However, as Preston noted, the Dolphins’ contract with Tua Tagovailoa, which carries $54 million in guarantees for 2026 and a $99 million dead-cap charge, may make it difficult for the team to offer Jackson a market-level deal. On the other hand, the Raiders have the cap space and cash to make a splash, and they hold the first overall pick in the draft. As one source noted, "The Raiders arguably need to make a splash" and adding Jackson could lure other free agents to town and help to retain current star players like Maxx Crosby and Brock Bowers.
The Role of Tom Brady
Minority owner Tom Brady is a key figure in the potential trade, and his influence could be crucial in convincing Jackson to join the Raiders. As one source noted, "If 2026 goes like 2025, Brady’s leather-glove-and-expensive-watch ensemble will be finished off with a front-office dunce cap." Brady’s involvement could help to persuade Jackson to waive his no-trade clause and join the Raiders. However, as Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti explained, "Lamar has the power" to control his own destiny, and he will have a significant say in any trade discussions.
Lamar Jackson’s Contract and Trade Possibilities
Jackson’s contract includes a no-trade clause, which gives him significant leverage in any trade discussions. As Bisciotti noted, "He has no power" to dictate the team’s coaching hire, but he does have the power to refuse any contract extension offers and play out the next two years before becoming a free agent. Jackson’s contract also includes a no-tag clause, which means that the Ravens cannot franchise him after the 2026 season. This gives Jackson significant flexibility and control over his future, and he will be able to dictate the terms of any trade or contract extension.
The Coaching Carousel and Quarterback Carousel
The coaching carousel and quarterback carousel are closely tied, with Jackson’s future a major factor in both searches. As one source noted, "If it’s going to happen, it could (and arguably should) move quickly" and the Ravens and Raiders will need to move fast to secure their preferred coaches and quarterbacks. The next few weeks will be crucial in determining Jackson’s future, and the NFL world will be watching with bated breath as the drama unfolds. As Bisciotti noted, "Lamar’s future will become a major factor in both searches" and the Ravens will need to be prepared to make a decision on their star quarterback’s future.
https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/will-the-raiders-make-a-play-for-lamar-jackson
