Branden Albert changes mind on retirement, wants to return to Jacksonville Jaguars

After abruptly retiring and leaving the Jacksonville Jaguars hanging, Branden Albert has had a change of heart and wants to play again.

Last week, it appeared the Jacksonville Jaguars were ready to turn the page on the long and storied Branden Albert era when the failed trade acquisition decided to shockingly retire in the middle of training camp. The team handed the reins over to second round pick Cam Robinson and forged ahead.

Not so fast.

Branden Albert might have a career in politics when he actually does retire because he’s already changed his mind.

In reality, this is a pretty terrible situation for the Jaguars.

First, Branden Albert looked washed up in his only week of real practices. He was beaten like a drum by Dante Fowler Jr., a guy who would probably be on the roster bubble if he didn’t have a first round pedigree. He was so ineffective in drills that it seemingly drove him to retirement.

Second, Albert coming back forces the Jaguars’ hand. Albert is almost certainly coming back because of money. If he stayed retired, Albert would have to pay back the Jaguars the $3.4 million dollar bonus he received earlier in the offseason. Albert is also due to make a hefty salary this year if he makes the week 1 roster.

While the best course of action here for the Jaguars in terms of culture is to cut Albert since he’s already twice chosen to skip practices, it would behoove the Jaguars to keep him. They need the offensive line depth even if Albert doesn’t start, and it would be disastrous for the Jaguars to cut him only to see the former Pro Bowl tackle block proficiently for another team.

It’ll be interesting to see how the Jaguars respond, considering this situation will pit the team’s new cultural tenant of commitment and competition with making the best business decision.