Lamar Jackson has been handed a role in the Baltimore Ravens’ draft process, with the quarterback set to have a say on which offensive players the team selects in 2024
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Lamar Jackson’s influence on the Baltimore Ravens’ draft strategy has been highlighted by head coach John Harbaugh, who disclosed that the star quarterback could play a significant role in the team’s offensive picks for the 2024 NFL Draft.
While the task of drafting players typically falls on the shoulders of general managers, Jackson is set to be given a slice of that responsibility. The 27 year old QB, who was on the verge of exiting the franchise before last season, ended up committing to a five-year, $260 million contract extension.
Jackson’s renewed deal seemed to fuel his performance, as he clinched the 2023 NFL MVP title, marking the second MVP honor of his career. Despite the Ravens securing the top seed in the AFC, they stumbled in the championship game. However, the team’s management concurs that Jackson’s input on potential rookie recruits is valuable.
“He looks at guys on tape. Lamar has never been shy about sharing his opinion about draft picks or free agents,” Harbaugh remarked. “He hasn’t weighed in quite yet, but he will.”
In the previous season, the Ravens picked wide receiver Zay Flowers in the first round, and he had an impressive debut year. Flowers quickly became one of Jackson’s preferred receivers, ending the season with 77 catches and scoring six touchdowns, including one on the ground.
This year, the Ravens are armed with seven draft picks, including the 30th overall in the first round. They’re set to pick once in each round, barring the sixth, and have a double shot in the seventh.
However, the spotlight is on finding a top-notch receiver following Odell Beckham Jr’s exit. Beckham Jr inked a one-year contract for the 2023 season as the Ravens rolled the dice, meeting his steep demands in hopes of reaping rewards. The move didn’t pan out as expected, yet coach Harbaugh remains eager for a reunion next term.
Beckham Jr announced his departure from the Ravens and had been linked with the Dolphins ( Image: Getty Images)
Ravens’ GM Eric DeCosta is keeping the lines open with Beckham Jr, who’s still on the market. “Odell’s a great, great guy. I love Odell,” DeCosta remarked.
“He’s become a great friend of mine and a friend to the Ravens, and I think we’ll just kind of assess and see what happens.”
Baltimore has already beefed up their offense, securing ex-Tennessee Titans powerhouse Derrick Henry on a two-year deal. With JK Dobbins sidelined by an Achilles injury last season, Gus Edwards stepped up, notching a personal best of 13 touchdowns.
With three picks in the top 100, the Ravens are eyeing a promising wideout. They hold the 30th, 62nd, and 93rd selections across the initial three rounds.