The Baltimore Ravens are viewed as one of the best organizations in the NFL. Baltimore has won Super Bowls, played in big games, and developed talented players.
Raven’s fans and sports fans know what’s occurring with quarterback Lamar Jackson. Jackson requested a trade from the team on March 2 and explained why via Twitter. Jackson requested a trade because he didn’t get a fully guaranteed deal from the franchise.
Sports analysts believe Baltimore is a classy organization that handles business the right way. However, Baltimore is currently in a tough spot because of the situation with Jackson.
Jackson is one of the best athletes in the NFL. Raven’s fans have witnessed Jackson take over games and attack defenses.
Jackson’s contract situation is shedding light on the Raven’s organization. Baltimore has had success, but their luck has changed since Jackson was drafted. Since 2018, Baltimore is 1-4 in the postseason. Most recently, Baltimore suffered a 24-17 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. Baltimore’s last playoff win came against the Tennessee Titans during the 2020-21 season.
Times have changed and Baltimore hasn’t experienced the playoff success they wanted. Baltimore hasn’t won a Super Bowl since the 2012-13 season. Joe Flacco was the starting quarterback and the defense was strong. Since then Baltimore has underachieved and haven’t met their potential. Quarterback Lamar Jackson is more athletic and more dynamic than Joe Flacco. However, Jackson hasn’t reached an AFC Championship game.
Baltimore is getting challenged by their AFC North opponents. The Cincinnati Bengals have been to back-back AFC Championships and played in the 2022 Super Bowl. Divisional games are always competitive. However, Baltimore used to dominate the Bengals. Since 2021 the Ravens are 1-4 against the Bengals.
Is there a solution?
(164) Taron Johnson Pulls Reverse Uno Card on Lamar for 101-Yd Pick 6! – YouTube
While it may be controversial, Baltimore should let Jackson walk if another NFL team offers him a deal. With the non-exclusive franchise tag, Baltimore can match another team’s offer. The Ravens shouldn’t match any offer. Baltimore won with pocket-passing quarterbacks. Remember Trent Dilfer? Despite Jackson’s skillset, I think teams have figured out how to make him uncomfortable during the playoffs.
In the last three seasons, the Kansas City Chiefs, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Los Angeles Rams have won the Super Bowl. What did all three teams have in common? Quarterbacks who won from within the pocket and won games when they counted.
Final Note
This article isn’t meant to discredit the Baltimore Ravens. The article is meant to highlight Baltimore’s current situation. We shall see what happens this season.