Falcons coach Arthur Smith admits team discussed the possibility of signing Lamar Jackson

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Free agent quarterback Lamar Jackson continues looking for a place to play, and the Atlanta Falcons have been linked to the quarterback for weeks.

Falcons owner Arthur Blank said publicly the team planned on sticking with QB Desmond Ridder for 2023 and would not pursue 2019 NFL MVP Jackson.

But during an appearance on "The Rich Eisen Show" Friday, head coach Arthur Smith suggested the organization did have discussions about adding Jackson to the roster.

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Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) runs the ball during the first half of a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Nov. 27, 2022, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

"Everything that becomes available around the league, if it can improve your roster, we discuss. That’s at every position, whether that’s the fifth corner or the backup gunner on a punt. We’re always going to look to add at every position," Smith said when asked if the Falcons had discussed Jackson. 

"Those discussions happen all day, every day. I understand some players get more attention than others, but absolutely we did."

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After the discussions, the team ruled out trading for Jackson, according to Blank and Smith.

Ridder, a 2022 third-round draft pick, completed 63.4% of his passes for 708 yards and two touchdowns in four games last season. Those numbers were apparently enough for the Falcons to name him the starting quarterback for 2023.

Atlanta Falcons head coach Arthur Smith, right, looks on as players are asked to vacate the field as