Why Cut Players Now?

Okay, today the Jaguars made some roster moves and released about seven players. Among them were veterans, Dan LeFevour (fancy name) and WR Jarrett Dillard. Why cut these players now you ask? Because its time. Both players did not do much if anything in the way of production to help get the Jaguars to the playoffs. Take Jarrett Dillard for example. Great guy, super cool with the fans. He was drafted out of Rice University in the 5th round of the 2009 draft. Here's his production numbers: In 2009 he caught six passes for 106 yards over seven games. He missed the 2010 season due to injury. In 2011 he caught 29 passes for 292 yards and one touchdown.

The new coaching regime is looking for high performers. Once the Jags brought in FAs Laurent Robinson, and Lee Evans many of the receivers who were/are on the roster had borrowed time. After the Jaguars draft Justin Blackmon it would be only a matter of days before the Jags started to make even more roster moves. The first of these that surprised people was when Drew Coleman was released. The Jaguars drafted nickle back Mike Harris out of Florida State University as their long term answer to as opposed to keeping Coleman. The good thing about the Jaguars is they cut these guys early in the off season so they have the opportunity to sign with other teams and get acclimated to a new coaching staff. The big question is will teams notice them or will they get by passed.

If these guys don't get signed there is a good chance that if there are injuries later in the season their services will be called on as replacements. Cutting players early in the off season keeps players from getting their hopes up. Decisions to release players are made with careful thought and timing is everything.

Dillard will not be the only receiver to go. During the season the Jaguars signed Taylor Price, Brian Robiskie and Chastin West to fill spots where there were injuried players. With a talented receiver corps that will primarily feature, Justin Blackmon (starter) Laurent Robinson (Starter) Mike Thomas (slot), Lee Evans, and Cecil Shorts III (2nd yr) expect one or two of the former to be cut as the off season continues.