Lamar Jackson’s stock reportedly climbing, expected to go in first round

Lamar Jackson has been somewhat of a mystery as we inch closer to the NFL Draft, but apparently he has a good chance of being selected very early.

Jordan Schultz of Yahoo Sports reported over the weekend that Jackson’s stock is rising and he could be picked as early as No. 15 overall, with the Arizona Cardinals in need of a quarterback of the future.

Lots of talk and confusion around Lamar Jackson. My understanding however, in regards to his draft stock, is that it continues to trend upward. Hard to imagine him falling him out of the 1st round. He could pretty high as well — think about ARZ at 15 as a possibility. #NFLDraft

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) March 31, 2018

Jackson has chosen not to hire an agent during the pre-draft process, and there has been a lot of talk about him hurting his own value. He did not run the 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine or at his pro day, which was a somewhat surprising decision for a quarterback who is known to make plays with his legs.

Earlier this offseason, there were reports that teams were interested in Jackson potentially as a wide receiver. However, the former Louisville star has made it clear that he has no intention of switching positions. That could be the motive behind him refusing to run the 40, as he may want teams to focus on his arm and not his legs.

If Jackson is taken in the first 32 picks, that would likely mean there are least five QBs selected in Round 1.