Why cutting Aaron Kampman was the right move...

Yesterday the Jaguars parted ways with DE Aaron Kampman after they brought him in 2 years ago during the 2010 free agency period. The move was one that I thought would come later in the summer if Kampman had not recovered and earned a roster spot by preseason. Kampman's injury woes started in 2009 when he tore his ACL in his right knee while he was with the Packers. He was picked up by the Jaguars after agreeing to a four year $25 million contract. $10 million of that was a signing bonus. Kampman would play eight games with the Jaguars and record 4 sacks before tearing the ACL in his left knee in practice back in November 2010. Kampman spent the remainder of the season in IR and that majority of the 2011 season inactive until week six where he played in his first game. He played two more games before once again being inactive for the rest of the season. In December Kampman had his second knee surgery in two years to repair some scar tissue.

Once free agency started there was speculation Kampman was on his way to recovery and could be ready to go by the time mini camp started. We now see that he will not. Parting ways now with Kampman is best. He was due to make $4.9 million this year and another $6 million next year if he was still on the roster not to mention bonuses. This money now can be added back to the Jaguars salary cap and go to someone who can still contribute to the team (MJD subliminal message). Not don't get me wrong, Kampman was a great presence on the team and the comments he made after he was released were nothing but full of class. He thanked the team and the fans for welcoming him and his family here to Jacksonville. You can't ask for a better way to for someone to go out after they have been released by a team. His former teammates took to Twitter after they learned of his release and rallied to thank him for the knowledge he shared with them about his experience in the NFL. Austen Lane tweeted:

"So sad to see Kampman go. I'm grateful for the things he taught me on the field but more importantly about life"

So who will take Kampman's spot. His release show the Jaguars really have faith in Austen Lane and their second round draft pick Andre Branch. Lane is in the third year of his rookie contract and is still looking to make a name for himself and prove that his talents are essential to the Jaguars defense. Lane started nine games for the Jags in 2010 when Kampman went down. Under the guidance of Joe Cullen and assistant Paul Spicer he could earn that starting spot again this off season. The Jaguars like him, they like his work ethic and his speed and strength.

Then again the Jags could go with the rookie. Andre Branch has caught the coaches attention since being drafted and participating in OTAs. The Jaguars like the rookies arm length, speed and size. He will of course come with that rookie warning label that says "Needs Time To Develop, Play with Caution". But that's why Mike Mularkey retained Mel Tucker and made him Asst. Head Coach. Coach Tucker knows what his defense can do. He knows which players are ready to take that starter/leader roll. That's why the Jaguars had a number six ranked defense last season.

Many members of the mainstream media have labeled the Kampman period in Jacksonville as the worse free agency signing in franchise history. I tend to find the light in the dark and look at the Kampman period as what was. He was what he needed during his time here and he contributed. When he played there was no doubt in his commitment to doing 100%. When he was injured he worked hard to get back to form. I wish him and his family the best. Thank you Aaron.