2023 Quarterback Frenzy & Some Predictions Could Change The NFL
Updated: Jun 28, 2023
During the NFL offseason, there’s susurration, and there are plenty of opportunities for big names to sign with new teams, such as quarterback’s Lamar Jackson, Aaron Rodgers, Derek Carr, Daniel Jones, and Sam Darnold.
Ravens Franchise Tag Lamar Jackson, Sign Him to Long-Term Deal
Lamar Jackson’s contract-signing process is complicated, especially after his cryptic Instagram post.
Last offseason, the quarterback rejected a six-year offer worth about $250 million, with $133 million guaranteed from the Ravens. Instead, the Browns signed DeShaun Watson to a five-year $230 million fully guaranteed contract, and Jackson wanted to match it.
Although Lamar Jackson won the MVP during the 2018-2019 season, arguably, Jackson was playing his best football. He was torching defenses before his injury in 2022. Jackson joined Tom Brady as one of the only two quarterbacks to win the MVP unanimously.
Lamar is the main reason the Ravens clinched a playoff berth in four of the last five seasons. The quarterback saved HC John Harbaugh’s job, which is telling due to the level of play Jackson’s been playing since his time with the Ravens.
Jackson is seeking a fully guaranteed deal, and he deserves it. Unfortunately, the Browns overpaid Deshaun Watson. But Lamar shouldn’t be going through this to get what he rightfully deserves.
The Ravens would be crazy if they don’t resign Jackson at some point, but they can’t stall. If Baltimore doesn’t sign Jackson now, somebody else will.
Aaron Rodgers Signs With The Jets
Many thought the Raiders would go all in for Aaron Rodgers, landing him with his former teammate, Davante Adams. The dual-threat are familiar with each other, and Aaron can make any wide receiver look good, especially Adams. The chemistry is there, so it was worth a shot.
But the Raiders aren’t pursuing the QB. Instead, Garrett Wilson is emerging as a top-ten receiver, and Adams can work with that. The Jets also have Elijah Moore, who’s looking to improve his sloppy sophomore season after taking a step back to Wilson.
The off-season will continue to impress many viewers as news unfolds, especially with the QB carousel.
Derek Carr Signs Deal With The Buccaneers
Carr has significant stats as a Raider, accumulating 35,222 pass yards and 217 touchdowns, setting franchise records in Raiders history. He signed a 3-year, $121.5 million contract extension in the offseason.
There are both pros and cons if any team wants to acquire Carr. Some pros would be he’s a 4-time pro bowler, and his leadership skills are good. However, there are cons to signing Carr. He’s coming off a down season and not a winner. Carr has only made it to the postseason once in his career.
Carr is average, a mid-tier quarterback at best.
Sam Darnold To The Colts
Sam Darnold’s career has stagnated and been somewhat disappointing in his first four years. As a result, Darnold could potentially be on the chopping block in Carolina.
It’ll be competent for the Colts to sign Darnold, knowing that the team is in a rebuild state. When Darnold got drafted No. 3 overall in 2018, the Jets traded up to get him with the Colts.
The Colts won the trade now that Darnold is seeking options. Likewise, the Panthers are looking for a new quarterback now that Frank Reich is the coach in Charlotte.
It will be interesting to see where Darnold ends up or if he’s traded.
Daniel Jones Franchise-Tag With The Giants
Daniel Jones had one of the best years of his young career with the help of Saquon Barkley, leading the Giants to their first playoffs since 2017. But unfortunately, Jones was a first-round pick, and they didn’t pick up his fifth-year option.
Daniel Jones is a dual-threat quarterback. But, even with his playoff win, he’s not a quarterback you can build a team around.
Danny Dimes had his best season last year, throwing for 3,205 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, and five interceptions with a career-high in rushing numbers (708 and seven scores) and a passer rating of 92.5.
Although Jones had a great season, I don’t see the Giants paying him $45 million annually.