Report: Falcons, Dolphins among teams not expected to pursue Lamar
The Lamar Jackson market is cooler than expected.
The Miami Dolphins are among multiple teams who won't pursue the Baltimore Ravens quarterback, sources told ESPN's Jeff Darlington. Miami reportedly believes Tua Tagovailoa is the perfect fit for head coach Mike McDaniel's system despite his health concerns.
The Atlanta Falcons, who boast $66.4 million in cap space, have also opted not to engage in a pursuit of Jackson, sources told ESPN's Dianna Russini.
Baltimore placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on Jackson on Tuesday. The two sides couldn't come to terms on a long-term deal despite months of negotiations.
Clubs can negotiate with Jackson, but the Ravens can match any offer. If Baltimore decides not to match, the team will receive two-first round picks from Jackson's new franchise. Suitors for Jackson can begin making offers March 15 at 4 p.m. ET.
In addition to the Falcons and Dolphins, the Washington Commanders are also not expected to pursue the 2019 NFL MVP, according to ESPN's Kimberly A. Martin. Washington head coach Ron Rivera named Sam Howell as the team's starting passer entering offseason activities.
The Carolina Panthers aren't likely to be in the Jackson market, either, per The Athletic's Joe Person. Carolina could look to acquire a franchise signal-caller in the 2023 draft after failing with past offseason acquisitions Sam Darnold and Baker Mayfield.
Initial reports suggested that the Las Vegas Raiders were unlikely to pursue the Ravens passer. However, Russini reports that the club, which parted ways with Derek Carr last month, hasn't eliminated any quarterback options.
Jackson reportedly desires a fully guaranteed contract similar to Deshaun Watson's five-year, $230-million deal.
Baltimore has until July 17 to work out a long-term deal with Jackson, who'll have to play on the one-year tender or sit out the season if he's not traded or signed.
Despite tagging Jackson, the Ravens remain optimistic that the two sides can reach an extension.