Lamar Jackson trade news: HC John Harbaugh opens about Ravens QB's future with team

Lamar Jackson was sorely missed by the Baltimore Ravens in their wild-card round loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. The quarterback was ruled out for the game due to a knee injury he suffered against the Denver Broncos in early December.

Moreover, there has been plenty of speculation about Jackson's future with the Ravens as he will become a free agent in the offseason. That is, unless the Ravens come to an agreement with him or place the franchise tag on the five-year pro.

However, Baltimore coach John Harbaugh has insisted that he plans to retain the 26-year-old amid interest from other suitors. He also said that Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta also "loves" Jackson.

While speaking to the media on Thursday, Harbaugh said that he hopes Jackson will sign an extension team as he plans to work with the quarterback on a long-term basis.

"Lamar Jackson is our quarterback," Harbaugh said. "I love Lamar. Eric loves Lamar. I'm going to have faith that it's going to get done. It's going to get done."

Harbaugh also said that Jackson will be involved in conversations about where the team is going offensively, having recently parted ways with offensive coordinator Greg Roman. As things stand, Baltimore plans to build a team around its star quarterback in a bid to attain glory.

How did Lamar Jackson fair during the 2022-23 NFL season?

Baltimore Ravens QB Lamar Jackson

Lamar Jackson finished the 2022 NFL season with 2,242 yards, 17 touchdowns and seven interceptions. He had a 62.3% pass completion rate.

The two-time Pro Bowler also added 764 yards and three touchdowns on the ground. Unfortunately, Jackson's season was cut short in Week 13 when he suffered a Grade 2 PCL sprain in his left knee.

It remains to be seen whether Jackson will opt to sign an extension with the Ravens. It's clear, however, that Harbaugh and the top executives in the organization are not interested in trading the quarterback in the offseason.