The Bears Face Major Challenge Due to New Lamar Jackson Details
Recent developments in the quarterback market appear to be favouring the Chicago Bears. Firstly, Derek Carr, a free agent quarterback, is being sought after by the Jets and Saints, both of which have draft picks outside of the top 10. Secondly, although initial rumours hinted that Aaron Rodgers would be traded, ESPN recently reported that it is more likely he will remain with the Green Bay Packers. This situation suits the Bears' draft objectives perfectly, however, the NFL off-season is often complicated and unpredictable, with at least one wildcard scenario likely to emerge.
This wildcard is Lamar Jackson, who was the former league MVP, and a rising star quarterback in the AFC. A year ago, it would have been unthinkable for Jackson to play for any team other than Baltimore. Nevertheless, reports have surfaced suggesting that Jackson's contract demands make it difficult for the Ravens to commit to him long-term, including Jackson's wish to become the highest-paid player in his position with a fully guaranteed contract similar to that of Deshaun Watson in Cleveland. Furthermore, the absence of an agent complicates the process.
To the surprise of many, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler has reported that there is a realistic chance that the Ravens will trade Jackson. If the Ravens refuse to compromise, the possibility of trading Jackson, who in 2019 joined Tom Brady as the only unanimous MVPs in NFL history, has never been more likely. If another team is willing to make the necessary commitment, it would likely require multiple first-round draft picks and a fully guaranteed contract for Jackson.
Such an event would create significant unknowns for well-laid plans. If the Ravens decide to trade Jackson, it is almost certain that they would target an NFC team, with the Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, and Washington Commanders being the most likely candidates. Of the three, Atlanta is the clear favourite as they have the most salary cap space and could afford to pay Jackson what he desires. The draft placement for the Falcons and Panthers is also notable, with both teams having top 10 picks. Therefore, if the Ravens trade Jackson, the package would likely include one of those picks, making it easier for the Ravens to enter the top 10 with four first-round draft picks in the next two drafts, but with a sudden need for a new quarterback.
Such an outcome would put the Ravens in a position to bid aggressively for the number one overall pick in the upcoming draft, should they covet a particular player. Such a scenario would put another prominent bidder on the board, and this would be excellent news for the Chicago Bears.
| POLL | ||
4 MARS | 46 ANSWERS The Bears Face Major Challenge Due to New Lamar Jackson Details Should the Bears extend Justin Fields earlier rather than later? | ||
| yes | 27 | 58.7 % |
| no | 19 | 41.3 % |
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