Ravens vs. Rogue Agent? NFL Warns Teams of Lamar Jackson Negotiation
Might new alleged representation further derail the plans Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson to secure a long-term deal?
Per an NFL Media report, all 32 NFL teams were notified by the NFL Management Council via memo on Thursday that a person by the name of “Ken Francis” might be “contacting Clubs … to enter into negotiations with or concerning Lamar Jackson.”
The report further identified Francis as a “Florida man who most recently was pitching a home fitness invention.”
Apparently, Francis drew the ire of the league by attempting to negotiate a nine-figure contract with NFL teams, who are now being warned of the ramifications of negotiating with someone who is not a certified agent.
“As an uncertified person, Mr. Francis is prohibited from negotiating Offer Sheets or Player Contracts, or discussing potential trades on behalf of any NFL player or prospective player or assisting in or advising with respect to such negotiations.”
The memo further stated that “violation of this rule may result in disapproval of any offer sheet or resulting in player contract entered into by Mr. Jackson and the new club.”
Bottom line, teams may communicate only with Jackson, unless and until he hires an NFLPA-certified agent.
However, Jackson may have already cooled the conspiracy machine before it was sufficiently warmed.
The Ravens and Jackson are running out of time to get a long-term deal done. After the Ravens placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on Jackson, there are reportedly no offers that have come from teams wanting his services.
Ravens GM Eric DeCosta has previously described that talks between both sides are "ongoing," with both parties understanding the urgency of the situation. DeCosta had expressed hope that the team and Jackson can get a deal done before the deadline for franchise tag application on March 7.
However, coming to an agreement will not be easy, as even DeCosta has acknowledged that Jackson's business style presents its unique challenges.
Still, it will be interesting to monitor the situation between Jackson and the NFL, especially as it relates to the Ravens, in the coming days.
Follow Mike D’Abate on Twitter @mdabateNFL
Follow the Baltimore Ravens Daily Blitz Podcast
Follow Raven Country on Twitter
Ravens Alert! Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Baltimore Ravens?
