Baltimore Ravens starting quarterback Lamar Jackson did not enjoy round one of the 2022 NFL Draft.
It’s not that the team missed out with their picks.
However, he was shocked to hear that wide receiver Marquise Brown was traded to the Arizona Cardinals.
General manager Eric DeCosta revealed that Jackson knew about the transaction.
But his reaction when the deal was made paints a different picture.
He also isn’t enjoying the Cardinals’ warm welcome for Brown.
— Lamar Jackson (@Lj_era8) April 29, 2022
Jackson’s reaction to the trade is understandable, especially because Brown was one of the team’s top wideouts.
Last season, tight end Mark Andrews led the team with 1,361 receiving yards.
However, Brown finished second with 1,008, to go with six touchdowns.
It was a breakout year for the former Oklahoma standout after having just 584 and 769 yards in his first two seasons.
Arizona sent its 23rd overall pick and received Baltimore’s 100th overall pick in acquiring Brown.
Baltimore then traded the 23rd pick for the Buffalo Bills’ 25th overall selection.
The Ravens could have drafted a wide receiver to replace Brown but chose center Tyler Linderbaum instead.
Ravens Avoiding The Inevitable Price Surge For Brown?
If he had another impressive season, the Ravens would have to sign Brown to a lucrative contract extension.
After all, he’s still playing at a bargain because of his rookie contract.
Considering the prevailing rate for wide receivers, even his $13.4 million fifth-year option is a steal.
A.J. Brown’s four-year, $100 million contract could serve as the basis for “Hollywood’s” asking price.
But trading him means that the Ravens don’t regard him worthy of that amount.
With Brown traded to Arizona, the team is thin at receiver.
Therefore, they need to improve their receiving corps, be it via the draft or by signing a free agent.
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