James Gladstone is the new general manager of the Jacksonville Jaguars, and his impact on the LA Rams’ draft process and results was “astounding,” as Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic put it on an appearance on 1010XL’s ‘Helmets and Heels.’
After a Super Bowl season in 2021, the Rams mustered just five wins in 2022. However, over the last two years since then, they’ve won 10 games in back-to-back seasons with two playoff appearances, and are again back to being among the contenders in the NFC.
Playing an important role in that drastic turnaround was the Rams’ success in the NFL draft during the previous two offseasons. And along with GM Les Snead, helping to lead that charge was Gladstone, the Rams’ Director of Scouting Strategy.
“James Gladstone, who really is the reason the Rams overhauled their draft efforts after the 2022 season and really nailed the last two draft classes. Ten starters between the two of those draft classes and finalists each year for Rookie of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, Offensive Rookie of the Year.”
“He is the reason the Rams nailed the last two draft classes.”
The Athletic’s @JourdanRodrigue joins Helmets and Heels to go in-depth on the Jaguars new General manager!
FULL VIDEO: https://t.co/3YzAwntsx8#Jaguars | #DUUUVAL @MiaOBrienTV @1010XLLauren @TayDoll1010xl pic.twitter.com/1S6Bns5PbV
— 1010 XL / 92.5 FM (@1010XL) February 21, 2025
In 2023, wide receiver Puka Nacua was an Offensive Rookie of the Year award finalist. In 2024, defensive end Jared Verse won the Defensive Rookie of the Year award.
In addition to those selections, the Rams also drafted numerous other starters and key contributors including Steven Avila, Kobie Turner, Byron Young, and Kamren Kinchens, among others.
“It’s just been astounding to watch James traffic control and strategize them through all of these new processes with Les Snead at the helm, of course, but James Gladstone has quietly been Les Snead’s right hand man for many years.” Rodrigue added.
With 10 draft picks of their own this offseason, including six within the first four rounds, the Jaguars are positioned well to add some immediate high impact help, and the odds of doing that have grown with Gladstone at the helm.
The Jacksonville Jaguars have hired James Gladstone to be their next general manager. Before joining the Jaguars, Gladstone had been with the LA Rams since 2016.
Vision, new ideas, communication, and chemistry#DUUUVAL pic.twitter.com/mEzPOE3QNz
— Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) February 22, 2025
As Rams’ beat writer Jordan Rodrigue of The Athletic noted in a recent interview on 1010XL, Gladstone–who worked closely with Rams’ GM Les Snead–played a pivotal role in LA’s recent draft success.
Following a five win season in 2022, the Rams have since turned things around quickly, with two 10 win seasons and two playoff appearances in a row. Expediting that process was their success in the draft.
Selections over the last two years include the 2024 Defensive Rookie of the Year, Jared Verse, 2023 Offensive Rookie of the Year finalist, Puka Nacua, along with Steven Avila, Kobie Turner, Byron Young and others.
“It’s just been astounding to watch James traffic control and strategize them through all of these new processes with Les Snead at the helm, of course, but James Gladstone has quietly been Les Snead’s right hand man for many years.” Rodrigue said.
For more coverage of Gladstone and the Jaguars, follow the links below:
10 Rams’ free agents (and Cooper Kupp) with James Gladstone Jaguars’ new GM
Rams reporter shares impact James Gladstone had in LA’s drafts
WATCH: Behind the scenes look at new Jaguars’ GM James Gladstone in Rams’ draft room
Shad Khan releases statement after hiring James Gladstone as GM
3 Things to know about new Jaguars GM James Gladstone
There are a couple big tasks on the plate of new Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Liam Coen. This includes altering the team culture, and getting quarterback Trevor Lawrence back on track.
But, in addition to all of that, when it comes to the Jaguars’ personnel, and what Coen believes the team has to emphasize moving forward, it all starts at the line of scrimmage and in the trenches.
On a recent appearance on SiriusXM NFL radio, Jaguars’ Executive VP Tony Boselli highlighted what stood out about Coen in his interview and what the new head coach plans to prioritize from Day 1.
“I don’t know how many people know this,” Boselli said, “but Liam Coen is a believer in the run game. What just came off the page with him for me was, we’re just sitting there talking in the interview, and his main focus–we talked about Trevor obviously and the quarterback–but his main focus is the offensive line–line of scrimmage.
“He says listen, we have to get the O-line right. If you can’t control the line of scrimmage, if you can’t run it, and you can’t protect, you can’t win.”
“We believe that we have a franchise quarterback in Trevor Lawrence, I’ll pound the table for that one.”@TonyBoselli discussed how he’s excited about HC Liam Coen and QB Trevor Lawrence in Jacksonville.
https://t.co/u2cRkasH7n@Jaguars | #DUUUVAL | #Jaguars pic.twitter.com/FmZvEEZUj2
— SiriusXM NFL Radio (@SiriusXMNFL) February 20, 2025
We all know how important time in the pocket is for any quarterback when it comes to the passing game. But a big part of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ overall success last season with Coen as the offensive coordinator was their ability to run the ball.
When an offense has a strong running game to lean on, it keeps them out of predictable passing situations and in manageable down and distances. From there, the entire playbook opens up as do opportunities in the passing game.
As Lawrence has gotten to know Coen and learn his offense, he said recently that what stands out the most about it, is the run game element.
During his introductory press conference, Coen was to the point in saying that the Jaguars’ offensive line play has to improve this season. So whether it be free agency, the draft, or both, that position group is going to be one we perhaps not only see the Jaguars address, but do so quite heavily.
The good news for Jacksonville is that in one season, the Bucs went from being one of the worst rushing offenses in football to one of the best under Coen.
This ability to control the line of scrimmage isn’t only on the offensive side of the ball either, but it pertains to the defensive line as well. “We gotta get the D-line right,” Coen added.
In 2024, the Jaguars’ defensive front ranked 32 in ESPN’s pass-rush win rate metric and 27th in run-stop rate.
“That’s where it starts,” said Coen of the trenches in his first press conference. “To go win playoff games and to go and do it, you’ve got to be able to run the football and stop the run, first and foremost.”
Photo by Jeff Speer/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
The results are in!
This week, we asked Jacksonville Jaguars fans who their early favorite NFL Draft prospect is that the Jags could select with their first-round pick.
38% of respondents voted for Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham, 16% voted for LSU offensive lineman Will Campbell, and 12% voted for Arizona wide receiver Tet McMillan.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25901320/Jacksonville_1_30425.png)
Our very own Dillon Appleman wrote a scouting report on Graham (more reports to follow!).
Here’s an excerpt from his write-up:
According to NFL Mock Draft Database, Graham has been pegged to the Jaguars in a whopping 39.3% of first-round mock drafts, more than any other prospect.
Top comments from Wednesday’s post:
Jaguardian
Graham…don't overthink this, Jags.
sgillespie00
At this point in the offseason, I think Graham. His arms are a bit concerning, but a lot of pundits are ranking him 3rd best player in this draft. Give me a great football player and as a bonus, at a position of need.
JAGSFANZ
Get W Campbell, beef up the O-line. Protect the QB, be a beast on the run game. There has to be a strong Guard in this draft also. Need to build the line for run game and protect against bull rush up the middle. I would also love to see a Center to eventually take over from Mitch Morse. Get this line younger and in synch.
FJC58
This pick should not be that difficult. Protect Trevor from injuries and select an interior offensive lineman like Campbell.
mnkman322
I think the best value for the Jaguars might be going receiver in the first.
JagsFanNYC
Membou is growing on me. 6'4 330 and a 40 time under 5.00 seconds is just ridiculous! I still would like to think that getting this DL some help would go a long way toward improving the unit.
If somehow Travis Hunter is there, he is the guy this team should not pass up, but otherwise, Graham or an OL is what this team should do. Maybe not the "sexiest of picks" but this game is won at the lines of scrimmage, so improve there!!
rockzilla
Membou....10 year RT Beast.
Photo by David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
With the NFL tampering period fast approaching, we share our favorite free agent fits for Jacksonville and our predictions for Liam Coen and James Gladstone's inaugural free agent class.
Welcome to Big Cat Country’s staff roundtable!
With the 2025 NFL Free Agency negotiation (tampering) period set to kick off on Monday, March 10th, the BCC staff took a few moments to discuss their predictions on where this Jacksonville Jaguars’ free agent class may land.
Question 1: What position group(s) would you predict the Jaguars to focus their attention on in the early days of free agency?
Dillon Appleman: Considering early indicators that the Jaguars are likely to prioritize the trenches early in the 2025 NFL Draft, I think it’s safe to say the secondary is where the early attention will go in free agency. It’s a pretty good market at both corner and safety, and Jacksonville could use a couple of reliable veterans at both spots to help patch up the league's worst pass defense.
Simon Carroll (Si): With little in the way of precedent to go on with regard to front office tendencies, it’s difficult to be sure. That being said, any reinforcements on the offensive line or in the secondary - two areas of the field where the Jaguars have notoriously struggled to stay healthy, would be welcomed.
Caitlin Connor: I hope the Jaguars focus their attention on the offensive line and the secondary. We all saw how both position groups struggled during the previous season, so with this year’s free agency market and only two players being franchise-tagged, the front office has an opportunity to find veterans to fill those roles.
Travis Holmes: I have a strong belief that this is the Jaguars front office that will finally make the necessary heavy investments into the secondary room. I foresee the team bringing in both a day-one free agent cornerback and at least safety to build up Anthony Campanile’s revamped defense. In Green Bay, the Packers’ defense was known to be extremely versatile in their coverage looks, with a moderate lean towards zone coverages over man. This would be a significant about face from Ryan Nielsen’s primarily press-man defense in 2024.
Gus Logue: The offensive and defensive lines would be a good place to start, though the Jaguars would also be wise to shore up their roster at relatively undervalued positions in free agency. Look at what the Eagles did last offseason when they signed RB Saquon Barkley, RG Mekhi Becton, LB Zach Baun, and S C.J. Gardner-Johnson. Jacksonville should look to sign a starting-caliber guard and safety at the start of free agency this year.
Henry Zimmer: After the purge of skill position players that happened Wednesday, I think wide receiver is going to be a group the Jags can spend money on. We are back to Trevor Lawrence not having many options to throw to outside of Brian Thomas Jr., so he is going to need a big name or two to add to that room. A certain former Ram is on the market, and a certain former Ram is running this team. I would start there.
Question 2: Who's one free agent you predict will land in Jacksonville someway, somehow?
Dillon: S Tre’Von Moehrig: Jaguars DC Anthony Campanile’s defensive philosophy is expected to have plenty of influence from his past stops with Jeff Hafley in Green Bay and Brian Flores in Miami. Both of those respected defensive minds value a box safety that can operate near the line of scrimmage and fit the run, while offering value as a blitzer. Moehrig fits that bill better than anybody else on the market.
Si: WR Chris Godwin: The Buccaneers’ productive receiver only played in seven games last year due to a dislocated ankle, but will be very familiar with Liam Coen’s system. The Jags have a lot of money sunk into weapons for Trevor Lawrence, but one more wouldn’t hurt, surely?
Caitlin: G Will Fries: ESPN’s Ben Solak described Fries as “quick” and “technically sound,” which the offensive line has been lacking. He’ll only be 27 when the 2025 season starts, so he could be worth the long term investment to upgrade the line.
Travis: CB Byron Murphy Jr: Minnesota’s Pro Bowl cornerback is looking for his third contract after playing out his prior two-year, $17.5 million deal. Coming off a 6-interception season where he played the role of versatile chess piece in Brian Flores' simulated pressure defense, I’d look for Campanile to bring in the 27-year-old defensive back to pair with Tyson Campbell and Jarrian Jones.
Gus: OL Ben Bredeson: The 27-year-old spent last season on a one-year prove-it deal with Liam Coen’s Buccaneers. He ended up winning the starting job at left guard and helping Tampa Bay set several franchise records on offense. I’m personally a big fan of RG Will Fries from Indianapolis, but given Bredeson’s 2024 performance and his connection with Coen, I would not be surprised to see him come to Jacksonville.
Henry: WR Chris Godwin: Let’s see if Kupp plays out to Jax. If not— or even if it does— Godwin would seem like a really logical pickup. He played for Liam Coen and can always be a threat. Sure, he is coming off an ankle injury but with Christian Kirk now gone along with Evan Engram, Lawrence needs a target. Godwin makes a lot of sense.
Question 3: Who are your personal favorite free agent targets you feel the Jaguars should target?
Dillon:
- Carlton Davis, CB, Detroit Lions
- Tre’Von Moehrig, S, Las Vegas Raiders
- Jedrick Wills, OT/OG, Cleveland Browns
Despite their struggles in 2024, the Jacksonville defense isn’t devoid of talent by any stretch. Many of last season’s issues could be blamed on the scheme, but perhaps an even bigger factor was the serious lack of “dawg” across the board. That’s why prioritizing veterans in the secondary like Carlton Davis and Tre’Von Moehrig would go a long way. Both play with a ton of energy and physicality and would bring a certain mentality that is much needed as the team looks to develop a new defensive culture under Anthony Campanile. Speaking of dawgs, Jedrick Wills could be a relatively inexpensive veteran addition to a very thin offensive line. Wills is still only 26, and a change of scenery could be just what he requires. He’d be an instant swing tackle upgrade.
Si:
- Asante Samuel, CB, Los Angeles Chargers
- Dan Moore, OT, Pittsburgh Steelers
- Jevon Holland, S, Miami Dolphins
The key in free agency is to avoid overpaying aging talent. With that in mind, the Jaguars would be best served focusing on positions of need during the ‘second wave’ where value for money is much more prevalent. Asante Samuel had a slow start with the Chargers but has shown growth year after year and will only be 25 when the season starts. Similarly, Jevon Holland has been an impact player in Miami, but should be more than affordable at a position that is criminally underpaid at this time of the year. Coming off a down season with the Dolphins, he could prove to be a real bargain. And despite not getting much love from the Steelers fan base, Dan Moore has 66 starts at left tackle under his belt and was much more polished in pass protection in 2024. With Walker Little struggling to stay on the field, having options on the blind side of the offensive line makes sense.
Caitlin:
1. Jevon Holland, S, Miami Dolphins
2. Carlton Davis lll, CB, Detroit Lions
3. Mekhi Becton, G, Philadelphia Eagles
There is a lot of talent that could fit in the offensive line in the draft, so I think the Jaguars could work on enhancing the secondary. Davis lll is seemingly ready to test the free agency market, so adding his experience along with Holland’s could help out the Jaguars’ defense.
Travis:
1. Patrick Mekari, OG/OT, Baltimore Ravens
2. Byron Murphy Jr, CB, Minnesota Vikings
3. Tre’von Moehrig, S, Las Vegas Raiders
While the Jacksonville Jaguars are in need of multiple offensive linemen and multiple secondary additions, I believe that they will fill out the defensive backfield primarily via free agency while grabbing a center in the draft. Mekari has been a foundational Swiss-army knife up front for the Baltimore Ravens, playing over 500 snaps at right and left tackle in prior seasons while starting at left guard all of 2024. Additionally, I believe the Jaguars will be in the market for not one but two starting safeties between free agency and the draft due to their change away from a primarily man defense scheme. Moehrig provides a flexible box safety who’s able to both man up, blitz, or simply make plays on the ball while in zone.
Gus:
1. Will Fries, RG, Indianapolis Colts
2. Tre’von Moehrig, S, Las Vegas Raiders
3. B.J. Hill, DT, Cincinnati Bengals
The Jaguars need not one but two new starters on its offensive line to replace Brandon Scherff and Mitch Morse. This year’s center class in free agency is pretty dry, so the Jaguars may look to the draft to fill Morse’s void, but they should look for an immediate heir to Scherff at guard this month. Indianapolis’ Will Fries is expected to fully recover after he broke his tibia in Jacksonville last season. His tough-nosed run-blocking would be warmly welcomed in Duval County. The Jaguars also need to replace safety Andre Cisco; Las Vegas’ Moehrig is a versatile playmaker who would instantly raise the floor of the pass defense. And, though less sexy, Cincinnati’s B.J. Hill would be a dependable veteran at defensive tackle.
Henry:
1. Cooper Kupp, WR, Los Angeles Rams
2. Chris Godwin, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
3. Carlton Davis, CB, Detroit Lions
The Jags need help at both receiver and defensive back. You really could go either way in terms of whom to prioritize, but let’s say the Jags opt to give Lawrence some more help. It would not hurt to get Matthew Stafford’s favorite target and the 2021 Offensive Player of the Year. The dude is “only” 31 years old. He can still get a couple of years finished in Jax. Godwin is the same way and is only 29. While yes he too has been injured recently, this team just literally needs receivers. With money to spend, it makes a lot of sense for Coen to target a former player. Carlton Davis fills the same need, under the same circumstances, just on the defensive side of the ball. He is a man coverage corner but can’t be worse than Ronald Darby. Right? Right??
Who are your favorite free agent prospects, Jaguars fans? Let us know in the comments below!
Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images
A roundup of Jaguars highlights, news, and more
Happy Friday, Big Cat Country! Let’s look at some of this week’s Jacksonville Jaguars highlights, hype, and more from X/Twitter.
The Jaguars celebrated the release of Jacksonville Monopoly:
Jamal Agnew commented on the Jags trading Christian Kirk:
Josh Hines-Allen voiced his thoughts on Kirk being traded to the Houston Texans:
Evan Engram after the news of his release:
Leon Searcy on the Jaguars’ roster moves:
J.P. Shadrick posted an update on stadium construction:
Jaguars UK and IE shared this Maurice Jones-Drew highlight for Pancake Day:
More MJD highlights:
Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay praised James Gladstone on the Pat McAfee Show:
Travis Etienne had a question for his brother Trevor during the NFL Combine:
Brenton Strange’s 411 receiving yards during the 2024 season made history:
The Jaguars highlighted Jacksonville native Carla Mechele and her work:
A feel good throwback to welcome in the weekend:
Not following us on social media? You can find us on Twitter, Blue Sky, Facebook, Instagram, and Threads.
Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images
In the span of minutes, the Jacksonville Jaguars have reportedly released two former Pro Bowl players, among others.
In a flury of moves heading into the opening of free agency, the Jacksonville Jaguars will reportedly release Pro Bowl tight end Evan Engram, per ESPN's Michael DiDocco.
Engram had one season remaining on his 2023 contract extension, after being franchise-tagged. After a 2024 season riddled with a hamstring injury and season-ending labrum surgery, Engram looked to be a questionable scheme fit entering year one of Liam Coen's offense. With the team deciding early on to release Engram, he will have an opportunity to land with a new team early on into NFL Free Agency.
Engram played in all 17 games of 2023 while setting multiple franchise tight end records - receiving yards (963), catches (114), while making the Pro Bowl. It remains to be seen if Jacksonville will decide to bring in another free agent tight end or allow Brenton Strange an opportunity to man the role in 2025.
The release would result in $13.5 millions in dead money with a $5.98 million cap savings.
Update:
Minutes after the report of Evan Engram's release, NFL insider Tom Pelissero also reported that the team will also be moving on from two-time Pro Bowl and All-Pro returner Devin Duvernay at the start of free agency.
The veteran receiver and kick returner was signed as a free agent in the 2024 offseason. However, his season was cut short after being placed on injured reserve in October due to a hamstring injury. He would later return to the lineup, with Parker Washington handling punt returns in his absence. Duvernay averaged 25.1 yards per kickoff return and 8.8 yards per punt return in 2024.
Additionally, Pelissero reported the team would be releasing cornerback Ronald Darby.
The Jaguars signed Darby to a two-year contract worth up to $10 million in 2024 to play in Ryan Nielsen's primarily match man defense. However, with a shift to a different defensive scheme, Darby would seem to be the odd man out. Darby will leave behind a dead cap hit of $2.75 million. However, the Jaguars will save $2.44 million in cap space with his 2025 release.
What are your thoughts on the Jaguars flurry of moves so far, Jaguars fans? Christian Kirk traded, Mitch Morse retires, Evan Engram, Ronald Darby, and Devin Duvernay released and there's still days remaining before free agency kicks off. Let us know in the comments.
Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Wolverines and Wolverines and Wolverines: oh my!
This past week was a reckoning for the Jacksonville Jaguars.
With the likes of Christian Kirk and Evan Engram now gone from Duval, as new general manager James Gladstone offloads contracts and saves for free agency, the Jags will be a brand new organization next season top to bottom.
This week’s roundup will likely be the last of its kind as Jacksonville's needs and wants drastically change as the roster is overhauled.
But for now, get ready to learn Mason Graham’s name once more.
ESPN’s Jordan Reid
We will start off with a Graham mock. It makes sense that Gladstone would want to draft a guy who can play on Day 1 and establish the type of playstyle and culture the Rams were so successful at doing. Graham fits that mold and is the pick at fifth overall.
CBS Sport’s Tom Fornelli
It is Graham once more, as the draft largely shakes out as normal from No. 1-4. Fornelli points out a weight discrepancy with Graham from roster weight to his combine weight, but that doesn’t seem like something a team cannot fix if they wanted to.
Yahoo Sports Staff
Two words: Mason Graham. A few more words: The Jags sucked on defense last year and need all the help they can get.
Pro Football Network
One last Graham mock for this week comes from PFN. You have heard it before and will hear again in this mock– Graham seems to be able to do everything you want at the defensive tackle position.
NFL.com’s Charles Davis
If there is a darkhorse candidate for Jacksonville at No. 5, it is Travis Hunter. The Heisman Trophy winner is only available in some mocks if there is a run on quarterbacks in the top-4. In this mock there is, so Hunter “falls” to five and Jacksonville gets a cornerstone piece for the future. But maybe not on defense?
Travis Hunter has all the tools to be a superstar WR in the NFL:
️ Crisp and effective route running
WR1, CB1, #1 Prospect in the Class. pic.twitter.com/xWSmG5gCDd
— Andy (@CUandyy) March 9, 2025
NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein
This mock makes sense given the Jags recent move on the offensive side of the ball. At No. 5, Jacksonville goes with Arizona wide receiver Tet McMillian as a Day 1 replacement for basically anyone except for Brian Thomas Jr. on the outside.
The 33rd Team’s Marcus Mosher
This mock stays with the offense theme, but instead it is a mock of an offensive lineman. Mosher thinks the Jags try to protect Trevor Lawrence with the draft’s best tackle in LSU’s Will Campbell.
Fox Sports Staff
If there was a consensus number two option for Jacksonville, it would be fellow Michigan Wolverine Will Johnson. At corner Johnson is the first defensive back taken in most mocks. With as bad as the Jags were on defense against the pass last year, it might be hard to pass up Johnson if he is available. Johnson however will not participate at Michigan Pro Day due to a lingering hamstring issue.
Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images
Your one-stop shop for 2025 Jacksonville Jaguars free agency updates: official signings, rumored interests, and everything in between.
The 2025 NFL free agency tampering (negotiations) period officially kicks off at noon today. The Jacksonville Jaguars are expected to be pretty busy reshaping their roster, with multiple offseason player releases, a trade, a retirement, and more expected turnover to come in a new regime.
Be sure to bookmark this page for any free agent additions, rumored interests, reported negotiations, and more. This page will be continually updated leading up to the NFL Draft.
Last update: 8:38 a.m. ET - Tuesday, March 11th
New Additions
- CB Jourdan Lewis: The former Dallas Cowboys cornerback will reportedly become the highest-paid nickel back in the NFL. The 29-year-old has 10 interceptions and 44 pass breakups in his eight years in the league. The deal will be three years, $30 million, with $20 million fully guaranteed. This may mean that standout rookie CB Jarrian Jones may be moving outside?
- QB Nick Mullens: The Jaguars have signed Mullens, the former Minnesota Vikings backup QB to a two-year, $6.5 million contract, with $3 million guaranteed to back up Trevor Lawrence. Mullens played under OC Grant Udinski in Minnesota in 2024.
- TE Johnny Mundt: Another former Minnesota Viking, Mundt will add depth to the tight end room with Evan Engram being released.
- TE Hunter Long: The 26-year-old, 4th year, former Los Angeles Rams tight end will reportedly join the Jaguars to provide additional depth to the room. Long's deal is reportedly a two-year deal worth $5 million with a $6 million maximum value.
- WR Dyami Brown: The former Washington Commanders receiver will reportedly sign with the Jaguars on a one-year $10 million deal worth up to $12 million. In 2024 he ranked 16th in the NFL in yards per route run vs man coverage, with 14 receptions for 229 yards in the Commanders’ three playoff matchups.
- S Eric Murray: The former Houston Texans and Kansas City Chiefs safety has reportedly agreed to a three-year, $22.5 million contract, with $12 million guaranteed. In 2024 he poated in 14 games securing 1 interception, 1 sack, 75 tackles, and 5 quarterback hits.
- OL Patrick Mekari: The Jaguars have reportedly reached an agreement with the versatile Baltimore Ravens guard. Mekari has been a foundational Swiss army knife up front for the Baltimore Ravens, playing over 500 snaps at right and left tackle in prior seasons while starting at left guard all of 2024. He gave up just one sack in 2024. It's reportedly a three-year deal worth $37.5 million. The contract has a maximum value of $39 million with over $20 million guaranteed.
- OT Chuma Edoga: The former Dallas Cowboys swing tackle is reportedly being brought in to likely compete in a similar role with Javon Foster and Cole Van Lanen. Edoga started 10 games over the past two seasons for the Dallas Cowboys. It's reportedly a two year, $7 million contract with $3.2 million guaranteed for Edoga.
- C Robert Hainsey: The former Tampa Bay Buccaneers center will join Jacksonville on a three-year, $21 million contract with $13 million guaranteed. Hainsey played for Liam Coen in Tampa Bay in 2024, while backing up rookie Graham Barton. He was the 2022 and 2023 starting center, surrendering just 4 sacks and 47 pressures on 1,541 pass blocking snaps (3%).
Rumored Interests
- WR Cooper Kupp: There has been a moderate level of smoke surrounding Los Angeles Rams receiver Cooper Kupp and possible interest from the new Jacksonville Jaguars front office. With James Gladstone and Liam Coen both coming from the LA Rams and the potential of Kupp being traded for cheap or released, a reunion of sorts would seem to be on the table this offseason. This is all assuming they miss out on Godwin, whom this writer would presume as the primary target early on.
- CB Jaire Alexander: While the Jaguars were reportedly interested in potentially acquiring Alexander, at this time it would seem that the team is just monitoring his status should the Green Bay Packers release the veteran cornerback. If Jacksonville is unable to acquire one of their top CB targets, they could choose to make a deal with Green Bay for a late-round pick or attempt to sign Alexander, if released.
Players of interest signed elsewhere
- S Jevon Holland: The Miami Dolphins safety was heavily rumored to be of heavy interest for Jacksonville since the NFL Combine, with multiple scouts referring to Jacksonville as “the Jevon Holland team.” However, Holland reportedly agreed to terms with the New York Giants.
- WR Chris Godwin: The Jaguars were expected to have interest in the 26-year-old Tampa Bay Buccaneers receiver, as he was be expected to be a top receiving option on the market and coming off a season playing under Liam Coen. However, he will reportedly be returning to Tampa on a new deal.
- G Ben Bredeson: Similar to Godwin, with Jacksonville having a hole at right guard, Tampa Bay's Ben Bredeson was likely someone on Liam Coen's radar after playing well in 2024 on a one-year deal for the Bucs. He will return to Tampa on a three year deal.
- CB Carlton Davis: Per ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Jaguars were expected to have interest in the former Detroit Lions cornerback. However, he was signed by the New England Patriots.
Pending transactions
- G Cole Van Lanen’s roster status is currently unknown, as the team has placed an original round Restricted Free Agent tender on the versatile guard/tackle. The Jaguars would receive a 6th round pick should Van Lanen sign elsewhere this offseason.
Returning Players
- TBD
Roster Subtractions
- C Mitch Morse announced his retirement on Thursday, March 6th (via the Jaguars). The move opens up the starting center roster spot while saving Jacksonville $2.25 million in cap space, resulting in a $3.2 million in dead cap, per Spotrac.
- RG Brandon Scherff is an unrestricted free agent whose contract has not been renewed.
- OG Blake Hance is an unrestricted free agent whose contract has not been renewed.
- QB Mac Jones is an unrestricted free agent whose contract has not been renewed.
- TE Evan Engram was released (via the Jaguars). The move saves Jacksonville $6.04 million in cap space, resulting in a $13.5 million dead cap, per Spotrac.
- TE Luke Farrell is an unrestricted free agent whose contract has was not renewed. He was signed by the San Franciso 49ers to a three-year contract worth up to $20.25 million, with $11 million guaranteed.
- WR Christian Kirk was traded to the Houston Texans for the Los Angeles Rams original 2026 7th round pick (via Tom Pelissero). The move saves Jacksonville $10.5 million in cap space, resulting in a $10.7 million dead cap, per Spotrac.
- WR Devin Duvernay was released (via Tom Pelissero). The move saves Jacksonville $132k cap space, resulting in a $1.2 million dead cap, per Spotrac.
- WR Josh Reynolds was reportedly released (via the Jaguars). The move saves Jacksonville $4.26 million in cap space and no dead cap, per Spotrac.
- CB Ronald Darby was released (via Tom Pelissero). The move saves Jacksonville $2.44 million in cap space, resulting in a $2.7 million dead cap, per Spotrac.
- S Andre Cisco is an unrestricted free agent whose contract was not renewed. He was signed to a one-year, $10 million deal with the New York Jets.
Important Dates
- Monday, March 10th (noon EST) - The legal tampering period begins.***
***During the legal tampering period, clubs can contact and enter into contract negotiations with agents of players (or the players themselves, for those without agents) who are about to become unrestricted free agents on March 12th. However, the negotiated contracts can not become official until the new league year begins on March 12th.
- Wednesday, March 12th (4:00 pm EST) - The 2024 league year, free agency signing period, and trading period all begin.
- Monday, April 7th - First day of Jaguars’ offseason workout program
- NFL Draft Dates:
- Round 1 - Thursday, April 24th at 8 p.m.
- Rounds 2-3 - Friday, April 25th at 7 p.m.
- Rounds 4-7 - Saturday, April 26th at noon
Countdown to the Draft
- Thursday, May 1: Deadline to exercise fifth-year option for 2023 first-round draft picks
- May 2-5 or May 9-12 (TBD) - Rookie Minicamp
- Late July: Training camp begins (exact dates TBD)
What are your thoughts on the Jaguars process and additions so far? Let us know in the comments!
Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images
LET JIMMY COOK!
The Jacksonville Jaguars were the most active team on the first day of 2025 NFL Free Agency.
During the “negotiation period” of NFL Free Agency, teams may agree to contract terms with free agents, though the deals won’t become official until the new league year begins on Wednesday.
The Jaguars — led by a new “football leadership unit” of head coach Liam Coen, general manager James Gladstone, and executive VP of football operations Tony Boselli — agreed to terms with nine free agents on Monday.
- CB Jourdan Lewis
- QB Nick Mullens
- TE Johnny Mundt
- TE Hunter Long
- WR Dyami Brown
- S Eric Murray
- OL Patrick Mekari
- OT Chuma Edoga
- C Robert Hainsey
Stay up to date with all the Jaguars’ recent moves with our 2025 free agent signings tracker
It’s generally not a great look to sign so many players so early. Title-contending teams preach patience and wait to find value in the second and third waves of free agency.
That said, the Jaguars didn’t exactly break the bank for any of its new additions. It’d be worrisome if Shaq Griffin or Christian Kirk-like contracts were being handed out, but the team’s new brass instead looked to upgrade the middle and back end of its depth chart.
What are your thoughts on how Day 1 went, Jaguars fans? Let us know in the comments below!
Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images
Instead of releasing him, the Jaguars are acquiring an additional 7th-round pick in 2026.
On Wednesday, it was reported that the Jacksonville Jaguars were planning on releasing wide receiver Christian Kirk ahead of next week’s start to free agency. Instead, the team is acquiring some extra draft capital en route to sending him to the Houston Texans. Per NFL insider Tom Pelissero, the Jaguars are receiving a 2026 seventh-round pick in exchange for Kirk.
In turn, the Texans will take on Kirk’s 2025 salary which will pay him $16.5 million for the upcoming season which will be the final year of his current deal.
This is a smart move by new general manager James Gladstone who was able to acquire some form of draft capital for a player they were going to release anyway. Kirk signed a four-year, $72 million deal in 2022 en route to setting career highs with 1,108 yards and eight touchdowns that year. However, he missed 14 games over the following two seasons and has not produced up to his deal in that span.
The move will save the Jaguars $10.732 million in cap space and it keeps Kirk from being the team’s highest cap hit in 2025 as he was set to count for $24.4 million.
Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images
Jacksonville agreed to terms with nine NFL free agents on Monday.
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Jacksonville Jaguars fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
Jaguars fans — Which free agent pickup from Monday do you like most?
Stay up to date with all the Jaguars’ recent moves with our 2025 free agent signings tracker
The Jaguars agreed to contract terms with the nine names listed above during the NFL’s “negotiation period.” Those deals can be signed and officialized at 4:00 p.m. Eastern on Wednesday, March 12, when the new league year begins and free agency formally opens.
“We’re going to elevate the floor of the roster immediately,” general manager James Gladstone said at last month’s NFL Combine. He held his promise.
Jourdan Lewis, Patrick Mekari, and Robert Hainsey figure to be Week 1 starters for the Jaguars. Dyami Brown and Eric Murray will also see significant playing time. Nick Mullens and Chuma Edoga are notable upgrades at critical backup spots, and Johnny Mundt and Hunter Long could provide a huge boost in the run game.
What are your thoughts on the free agent class so far? Let us know in the comments below!
