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There is a curious lack of attention on the market for Lamar Jackson. Ordinarily, a former NFL MVP coming off his rookie contract would be unbelievably popular among teams. Most of the time, they'd be lining up out the door just to submit an offer. However, Jackson has seen little to no traction this offseason.
Many teams have publicly stated they're not in on Jackson. The latest to do so appears to be the Atlanta Falcons, but NFL analyst Bomani Jones isn't hearing any of their excuses.
Ari Meirov said on Twitter:
"Falcons owner Arthur Blank told a group of reporters that the Lamar Jackson situation is 'very different' than Deshaun Watson from a year ago. Blank did mention there's some concern with Lamar's style and how long it could hold up. He brought up the games he's missed over the last two years. 'Each game counts in this business.'"
Blank was notably in on trading for Watson last offseason but hasn't given Jackson a second thought. Jones ripped into him and the team, saying on Twitter:
"This is strange logic from a man who gave Vick -- who was injury-prone *and* fighting dogs -- a market setting contract and wanted to trade for the nasty man *and* pay him...but you expect me to think he's scared off by Lamar's 'style of play?' Cmon man."
It doesn't appear that the Falcons are going to change their minds, but at least people like Jones are pointing out the palpable strangeness surrounding this entire situation.
Why aren't teams interested in signing Lamar Jackson?
It isn't just the Atlanta Falcons who are disinterested in Lamar Jackson. The Carolina Panthers have publicly shied away from him and other teams have been more interested in the other prospects available than Jackson the entire way.
Why is that? It's impossible to say, because Jackson's value far outweighs the risks he brings to the table. He's a dynamic player, perhaps the most electric player in the NFL, and he's in his prime.
He won an MVP award and has been to the playoffs multiple times. This should be a no-brainer. His price tag is high and uniquely risky for teams, but a complete lack of interest from the entire NFL makes very little sense.
