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Lamar Jackson's future with the Baltimore Ravens is still completely unknown as the 2023 NFL offseason continues to play itself out. The two sides have failed multiple times to agree on a long-term contract extension, resulting in the superstar quarterback formally requesting a trade from the franchise.
While the Ravens decided to place their non-exclusive franchise tag on Jackson, he's yet to officially sign. The tag prevents him from becoming an unrestricted free agent. However, if he's truly frustrated with the organization, he could potentially choose to sit out the 2023 NFL season.
This complicated situation leaves the Ravens in limbo when it comes to their starting quarterback for the upcoming season. Unless they finally come to an agreement with Lamar Jackson on a long-term contract, they may be forced to seek other options.
Former Cleveland Browns general manager Michael Lombardi recently appeared on an episode of the "Pat McAfee Show" to provide a suggested solution in Baltimore.
"I love Cam and I've spent time around Cam. Cam is a dynamic leader. Cam's an alpha male. When he walks in the room, people are going to follow him. And so that becomes the challenge for the backup quarterback because he's going to create a following."
"But if I were in Baltimore and I was in this Lamar situation, knowing what I know about where this could end up or where it's going to go, I think I would sign Cam. Now, I understand his arm isn't what it once was, but his leadership, his ability to create a team atmosphere is so powerful and you don't know if Lamar is going to sign his tender."
Cam Newton last played during the 2021 NFL season, when he posted a disappointing 0-5 record with the Carolina Panthers. He was a fill-in that season. The year before, with the New England Patriots, was his last year as a full-time starter. While his recent results have been discouraging, his style of play makes Lombardi's suggestion an interesting solution to the Ravens' problem.
Cam Newton could excel in a Lamar Jackson style of offense
The Baltimore Ravens have designed their offensive scheme to include more designed rushing plays for Lamar Jackson than any other team does for their quarterbacks. He is one of the greatest rushing quarterbacks in NFL history, so the Ravens are playing to his strengths.
While Cam Newton is certainly not Lamar Jackson at this point in his career, he has demonstrated that he can still be a weapon in the rushing game. In his last 20 starts, spanning the last two seasons, Newton has rushed for an impressive 822 yards and 17 touchdowns. If there's anywhere he can still shine in the latter part of his NFL career, it's likely in the Ravens' unique offensive system.
