A step-by-step guide to how the 49ers could improbably acquire Lamar Jackson

Jackson playing in San Francisco isn’t that improbable. Here’s how it happens.

News of Lamar Jackson receiving the non-exclusive franchise tag Tuesday sent ripples throughout the NFL world.

With the Baltimore Ravens opening the door to Jackson’s potential departure, which organization would make a lucrative offer the Ravens would likely have to refuse to match? Surely, everyone would want a piece of a quarterback who could carry an offense. Right?

Well, except for the Atlanta Falcons, who opted out of a pursuit for the former unanimous MVP. You’d think that was a natural fit, but there are more wrinkles to consider in that situation. Same with the Las Vegas Raiders, Miami Dolphins and Carolina Panthers, somehow. But another prestigious franchise was part of the underlying Jackson conversation:

The San Francisco 49ers.

After making a blockbuster deal to trade up for Trey Lance during the 2021 NFL Draft, it didn’t seem like the 49ers were serious players for Jackson’s services. Ah, but there’s the rub: it’s unlikely in this scenario, but you can always finesse NFL moves — whether that’s gaming the salary cap or building a super team.

San Francisco already has a bona fide All-Star roster of talent. Let’s consider every part of a potential 49ers’ plan, step-by-step, for them to bring Jackson to the Bay Area.