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Jacksonville Jaguars Part Ways with Pro Bowl Tight End Evan Engram Amid Cap Cuts
On Thursday, the Jacksonville Jaguars took significant steps to reduce their salary cap, making headlines with the release of Pro Bowl tight end Evan Engram, according to multiple sources.
Earlier that day, the team also traded veteran wide receiver Christian Kirk to the Houston Texans in exchange for a seventh-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. The move was expected, as Kirk was set to be released anyway. Reports indicate that he commanded the largest cap hit on the team at $24.1 million, resulting in a savings of just over $10 million for the Jaguars by trading him.
Engram ranked as the second-largest cap hit for the Jaguars, with a value of $19.49 million for the 2025 season. By releasing him, the Jaguars will take on $13.5 million in dead cap but will save nearly $6 million, allowing for further financial maneuvering.
New General Manager’s Strategy
James Gladstone, who was appointed as the Jaguars’ General Manager on February 21, is demonstrating a clear strategy to create salary cap space for potential free agent acquisitions. His actions also reflect a long-term vision towards the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft.
The decision to trade Kirk aligns with the team’s current roster, which includes promising wide receivers Brian Thomas Jr., Gabe Davis, and Parker Washington. As a seven-year veteran, Kirk’s career has been marred by injury questions, making this move particularly sensible.
Engram’s Impressive Yet Challenging Season
Despite the cap-related reasons for Engram’s release, his performance last season was noteworthy. He enjoyed a breakout 2023 season, recording 114 catches for 963 yards and adding four touchdowns during his second Pro Bowl appearance.
However, the 2024 season was riddled with challenges for Engram. He suffered a torn labrum, requiring surgery in mid-December. Additionally, he sat out the first four games of the season due to a hamstring injury, limiting him to a total of nine games. Over that season, he accumulated 47 receptions for 365 yards and one touchdown.
A Look Back at Engram’s Career
Evan Engram was selected in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the New York Giants after a standout career at Ole Miss. His first five seasons in New York displayed both potential and inconsistency. After signing with the Jaguars, he aimed to establish himself as a central figure in their offensive scheme.
Future Prospects for Engram
As a newly minted free agent, Engram now embarks on the next chapter of his career, looking to join a team in need of a proven tight end. Potential landing spots might include the Los Angeles Chargers, Chicago Bears, or Denver Broncos, all of whom could be interested in his skill set.
Meanwhile, the Jaguars are set to move forward with a depth chart that includes Brenton Strange, Shawn Bowman, and Patrick Murtagh at tight end. This shift could signify a new direction for Jacksonville’s offensive strategy as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season.
Implications of the Latest Cuts
The Jaguars’ decision to part ways with both Kirk and Engram illustrates a broader trend in the NFL, where teams must balance player talent with financial responsibilities. As franchises navigate complicated salary cap situations, strategic decisions become crucial for future success.
With Ligament tears and injuries being part of the conversation, the Jaguars have shown their willingness to adapt by reshaping their roster. This not only affects the team’s current composition but also sets the stage for fresh talent in the draft.
Looking Ahead
As the Jaguars continue to reshape their roster, the focus now shifts to what they will do in free agency and the upcoming draft. Engram’s departure carries weight, but the franchise intends to build a competitive team capable of contending in the AFC South.
The decisions made by the Jaguars’ front office signal a transformative phase, challenging the existing paradigms of player retention and team performance. The changes may ultimately set the stage for a more successful future.
Tight ends often play a pivotal role in teams’ offensive schemes, and Engram’s next destination will be closely watched. Fans and analysts will be interested to see where he lands and how he will impact his future team.
