The Raiders are one of a handful of teams trying to pry All Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey away from the Jaguars. Ramsey’s price, according to several reports, is two first-round picks and the Jags might not be willing to take any less.
After a strong showing on Thursday night, an Associated Press report on Friday indicated that Jacksonville may be reconsidering any plans of trading Ramsey.
Via Mark Long of the Associated Press:
“The Jags would prefer to keep their star cornerback after several days of trade talks with other NFL teams, according to a person close to the situation. The person spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity Friday because details of trade talks have not been publicly discussed. The decision came amid a much-needed, 20-7 victory over Tennessee.
Ramsey hugged several fellow defensive backs after the win, appearing to say goodbye in what many believed would be his final game with Jacksonville. Behind the scenes, though, teammates, coaches and members of the front office were working to try to repair Ramsey’s fractured relationship with the franchise, specifically with top executive Tom Coughlin.
Jaguars owner Shad Khan had several meetings at the facility earlier in the week in hopes of solving issues. That might include giving Ramsey the long-term contract extension he wants, the person said.”
Are the Jaguars serious or are they just trying to add another element into trade negotiations that might move a team to offer more compensation for Ramsey?
This actually feels legit.
Friday was supposed to be a day where teams went back to the negotiating table on Ramsey, but it seemed like today was more about the Jaguars trying to find a way to keep their All-Pro cornerback.
Maybe the real question, though, is how willing is Ramsey to stay with the team?
If Antonio Brown has taught the football world anything, it’s that players can force their way out of about any situation they don’t like. Ramsey might not stoop to the level Brown did, but if he wants out of Jacksonville, he can make it happen.
We already know Ramsey would like to play in Las Vegas. We also know the Raiders are able, and probably willing, to make the most enticing offer for Ramsey, but will it be enough?
So far, the answer seems to be ‘no.’
twitter: @raidersbeat