Top 5 Landing Spots for Former MVP Lamar Jackson
By Peter Jurich
5: New York Jets
First on the list of teams who could sign/trade for Lamar Jackson is the New York Jets. With a young stable of playmakers, including last season’s Offensive Rookie of the Year Garret Wilson, Jackson would walk into the Big Apple as the team’s starter, providing a massive upgrade over former No. 2 overall pick Zach Wilson.
The Jets are currently slightly in the negative in terms of cap space, so pursuing Jackson would almost certainly mean that the team would have to cut ties with some pricey veteran players. But, Jackson would dramatically raise the ceiling of an offense who went an impressive 7-10 despite multiple question marks under center last season.
The Jets seem to be zeroed in on trading for Aaron Rodgers, but Jackson would almost certainly be a better option moving forward, and would be the franchise quarterback for years to come.
4: Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders are in play to add Lamar Jackson, especially when looking at the cap space they have to work with, as well as the talent across the roster. Similar to the Jets, the Commanders had a strong 2022 campaign, despite a lack of consistent quarterback play.
Logistically, this landing spot would be the easiest for Jackson to transition to, as the quarterback would likely have to move just 50 or so miles across the DMV. On the field, the transition could be almost as seamless.
With excellent receivers, led by Terry McLaurin, a solid offensive line, and a crop of young running backs, Jackson could be the missing piece that would allow Washington to truly compete in one of the league’s toughest divisions. If Washington is serious about catching up in a division that saw all three other teams make the playoffs a season ago, adding Jackson would be a must.