Jacksonville Jaguars pick up 2018 contract option on Marcedes Lewis
By Billy Long
The current longest-tenured Jaguar will remain in Jacksonville for at least another season in 2018.
While waiting for the hustle-and-bustle of the NFL new year, the Jacksonville Jaguars used Tuesday to take care of some internal work. The team picked up the contract option for Marcedes Lewis, confirming the veteran will be returning with the team in 2018.
Next season will be the 13th year for the tight end, who was drafted by Jacksonville way back in 2006. Lewis is a well-respected leader within the team, and has been a captain two of the last three seasons.
The return of the most experienced Jaguar doesn’t come as a surprise. Although Lewis’ production as a receiving threat has dwindled in recent years, the tight end has continued to be a valuable blocker and red zone target.
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Lewis staying in Jacksonville next season in no way changes what has to happen in the forthcoming offseason. The Jaguars desperately need to address the position in either free agency and/or the draft.
Jacksonville has a talent-loaded roster, but tight end is arguably the weakest unit on the team. While Lewis continues to sufficiently provide as a blocker, a vertical threat is woefully missing at the position, and a pass-catching tight end is a must in today’s game to be successful.
Next: Free agent tight end targets for the Jaguars
Despite the need to bring in new talent however, Marcedes Lewis coming back in 2018 is a welcomed move. The veteran continues to be a vocal team leader, and has given his all, even in the decade of painfully bad seasons.