NFL superstar Lamar Jackson has sent Las Vegas Raiders supporters into a frenzy after hinting at a possible blockbuster trade to the franchise, only to later dismiss the speculation as a social media error.
Social Media Mishap Fuels Speculation
The Baltimore Ravens quarterback, coming off a disappointing 8-9 season that saw the team miss the playoffs and part ways with long-time head coach John Harbaugh, inadvertently sparked intense rumours this week. Jackson reposted a fan's image on X showing her young son wearing his Ravens jersey while holding a Las Vegas Raiders-themed football.
The original poster had captioned the image: 'Is this a good time to point out my (then) 3 year old MAY have predicted the potential move of @Lj_era8 to the Raiders?'
Immediate Backtrack and Clarification
Fans were astonished to see Jackson's interaction, given it was his first activity on the platform since January 7th. However, the two-time NFL MVP and 2016 Heisman Trophy winner quickly deleted the repost and provided clarification.
Jackson later responded directly to the post, writing: 'Lol I just posted the kid in the jersey didn’t even read the caption.'
Persistent Trade Rumours Despite Denial
This technical mishap occurred just days after Pro Football Talk's NFL insider Mike Florio dropped a bombshell report suggesting the Raiders, under owner Tom Brady's influence, were considering a major play for the 29-year-old quarterback.
Florio stated on a recent podcast: 'There's a feeling out there that the Raiders are going to make a play for Lamar – offer the first-overall pick in the draft for Lamar Jackson. Tom Brady feels compelled to do something. It may not work, but just do something.'
This speculation persists despite expectations that Las Vegas might draft Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza with their first pick in April.
Jackson's Contract Situation and Performance
Jackson's future in Baltimore remains uncertain despite having two seasons remaining on the historic five-year, $260million contract he signed in May 2023, which made him the NFL's highest-paid player at the time.
When asked about trade rumours following the Ravens' season-ending loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 18, Jackson was evasive: 'I'm not even thinking about that right now, to be honest with you. I'm still caught up in what just happened. That's not my focus right now.'
Statistically, Jackson completed 192 of 302 passes this season for 2,549 yards, 21 touchdowns and seven interceptions, while adding 349 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 67 carries.
Legacy Questions in Baltimore
Drafted 32nd overall by the Ravens in 2018, Jackson has yet to reach a Super Bowl during his eight seasons with the franchise. The recent social media incident, though clarified as accidental, has nevertheless intensified discussion about whether the talented quarterback might seek a fresh start elsewhere as the Raiders organisation looks to make a significant splash under Tom Brady's ownership.
