The Lamar Jackson trade chatter is heating up again - and this time, it’s not just social media buzz. According to a new report, there’s real tension between Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens, and the idea of a trade is no longer off the table. The Las Vegas Raiders, one of the NFL’s most valuable franchises, are being floated as a potential landing spot.
Veteran NFL columnist Mike Preston reported that the relationship between Jackson and the Ravens has soured to the point where both sides could be ready to move on. That’s a major shift considering Jackson’s status as a two-time MVP and the face of the franchise. But when the cracks start to show between a star quarterback and his team - especially one with a massive contract on the books - things can escalate quickly.
Colin Cowherd Weighs In: Would the Ravens Actually Pick Up the Phone?
On Friday, Colin Cowherd added fuel to the fire during his podcast, offering his take on Preston’s report and what it could mean for the Ravens’ future. Cowherd didn’t mince words: if the right call comes in - say, from the Raiders or even the Dolphins - he believes Baltimore would at least listen.
“Baltimore, arguably the best owner in the game,” Cowherd said. “Great owner, great coach, great equity, great fans, unbelievable brand.”
That’s not just praise - it’s context. The Ravens are a franchise that’s built on stability and long-term vision.
They don’t make rash decisions, but they also don’t shy away from bold moves if it benefits the team’s future. Cowherd’s point is simple: if a team like the Raiders, who’ve struggled to find consistent quarterback play in recent years, comes in with a strong offer, the Ravens might not slam the door.
“Have you watched the Raiders play the last five years?” Cowherd asked. “Have you watched the Dolphins regress a quarterback this year?”
It’s a fair question. The Raiders have cycled through quarterbacks and coaches, and while the Dolphins have seen flashes of brilliance from Tua Tagovailoa, their offensive identity has been inconsistent. For either team, a player like Lamar Jackson could be a franchise-changing move - if he’s healthy and playing at his peak.
The Contract Complication: $74.5 Million and Counting
Here’s where things get tricky. Jackson is set to earn $74.5 million over the next two seasons - a figure that would make him the highest-paid quarterback in the league.
That kind of money demands elite performance. And while Jackson’s resume speaks for itself - two MVPs, countless highlight-reel plays, and a unique dual-threat skill set - this season hasn’t lived up to that standard.
Injuries have played a role. Jackson missed three games early in the year with a hamstring issue, and now he’s listed as doubtful for Week 17 against the Packers due to a back contusion. The Ravens stumbled to a 1-5 start in part because of his absence, and even when he’s been on the field, the results haven’t always matched his MVP-level expectations.
Has Jackson Regressed? Cowherd Thinks So
Cowherd didn’t shy away from the idea that Jackson might be slipping - or at least no longer untouchable. He broke down how he views quarterbacks in the league: a top tier of about six guys you wouldn’t even consider trading, no matter the offer. Jackson, in Cowherd’s eyes, used to be in that group.
“I’ve always had a rule: there’s about six quarterbacks in the league - I know I say this too often - I would not even pick up the phone no matter the offer,” he said. “Lamar to me was always in the first group. Now he’s transitioned, if this is true, and I trust Mike Preston, he’s in the second one.”
That second tier? Still elite.
Still franchise guys. But if someone offers three first-round picks?
You at least hear them out.
What’s Next for Baltimore and Jackson?
This situation is far from settled, but it’s clear that the dynamic between Jackson and the Ravens is shifting. Whether it’s about performance, injuries, or the weight of that massive contract, the idea of a trade isn’t just fantasy talk anymore - it’s a real possibility being discussed by plugged-in voices around the league.
For Baltimore, the decision is monumental. Jackson has been the centerpiece of their offense, a player who can change the game with his legs or his arm. But if the front office believes his best days are behind him - or that his price tag no longer matches the production - they might decide it’s time to reset.
And for teams like the Raiders or Dolphins, the question becomes: are you willing to bet the future on a quarterback who, when healthy and locked in, can be one of the most electric players in football?
The trade deadline might be months away, but the conversation is already here. And if this smoke turns into fire, the NFL offseason could get very interesting.