Jacksonville Jaguars: Time to think about free agents
By Kathy Clark
The Jacksonville Jaguars magical 2017-18 season is over. As a result it is time to think about free agents. The Jaguars management team has many decisions to make in the coming months.
UNRESTRICTED FREE AGENTS
To start let’s look at the Unrestricted Free Agents. These players are out of contract and free to move on to other teams. Also the Jaguars would get no compensation if they leave. First on the list is wide receiver Allen Robinson. Robinson is a top receiver, and the Jaguars need to keep him. Next, another keeper is offensive lineman Patrick Omameh. Omameh is a solid starter at best, or at least much needed depth. Also, Linebacker Paul Posluszny deserves a contract in spite of his declining skills for his leadership qualities, and depth at the position as well. Cornerback Aaron Colvin and receiver Marqise Lee will test the open market and may not return. It is unlikely that backup quarterback Chad Henne will be offered a new contract.
EXCLUSIVE RIGHTS FREE AGENTS
The Jaguars can offer this group a minimum term one year contract and they are obligated to remain on the team. Consequently Jacksonville needs to offer Ben Koyack and Chris Reed one year contracts. Other players in this category include Shane Wynn, William Poehls, and Tyler Gaffney. Offer these players a contract if the team wants a second look at them for the future.
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RESTRICTED FREE AGENTS
This group can talk to other teams and those teams can offer them a contract. Next the Jaguars can either match the offer or let the player move on. Happily Jacksonville gets compensation for a player who moves on to another team. At present, there are three players in this category. Corey Grant and Donald Payne will stay. Jaelen Strong is uncertain.
COMMENTARY
This is the first step to plan for next season. Once the team makes these decisions, the team can look at potential draftees and free against from other teams. Of course the elephant in the room is Blake Bortles. It is THE decision of the business season. Furthermore, many decisions result from this very important decision.