Jacksonville Jaguars Undergo Roster Overhaul, Prioritize Cap Space in Bold Moves
The Jacksonville Jaguars are signaling a clear shift in strategy under the guidance of new General Manager James Gladstone, as the team executed a series of cost-cutting measures Thursday aimed at creating financial flexibility for upcoming free agency and the 2025 NFL Draft. In a day of significant roster adjustments, the Jaguars parted ways with two prominent offensive players: veteran wide receiver Christian Kirk and Pro Bowl tight end Evan Engram.
The most impactful move involved the release of Engram, a decision that sent ripples throughout the league. Engram, who was slated to carry a hefty $19.49 million cap hit in 2025, became a casualty of the team’s financial restructuring. While releasing Engram results in a dead cap charge of $13.5 million, the Jaguars will ultimately save just under $6 million in cap space. This move highlights Gladstone’s willingness to make tough choices to achieve his vision for the team’s future.
Earlier in the day, the Jaguars traded Kirk to the Houston Texans in exchange for a 2026 seventh-round draft pick. Kirk, who had the largest cap hit on the team at $24.1 million, was reportedly on the verge of being released anyway. By trading him, the Jaguars are able to free up just over $10 million in cap space, according to Over The Cap. While the return for Kirk appears minimal, the primary motivation was undoubtedly to alleviate the burden of his large contract.
These decisions reflect Gladstone’s proactive approach to roster management. Hired on February 21st, he is demonstrating his commitment to building a team that is both competitive and financially sustainable. By shedding significant salary obligations, Gladstone is positioning the Jaguars to be active players in the free agent market, potentially targeting key additions to bolster the roster. He also aims to have the cap space needed to ensure the 2025 draft picks the team makes can be signed and that the team has enough space to address injury replacements during the season.
The trade of Kirk suggests that the Jaguars are confident in their current group of wide receivers. The team boasts a promising group of pass catchers, including Brian Thomas Jr., Gabe Davis, and Parker Washington. Thomas, a highly touted rookie, is expected to make an immediate impact, while Davis provides a proven veteran presence. Washington adds depth and versatility to the receiving corps. While Kirk’s departure leaves a void in terms of experience, the Jaguars seem optimistic about the potential of their remaining receivers. Kirk’s injury history, including time missed during the 2024 season, may have also factored into the decision to move on.
The release of Engram, however, is a more complex decision. Engram enjoyed a Pro Bowl season in 2023, recording 114 receptions for 963 yards and four touchdowns. He established himself as a reliable target in the Jaguars’ offense and formed a strong connection with quarterback Trevor Lawrence. However, Engram’s production declined in 2024 due to injuries. He tore a labrum, requiring surgery in mid-December, and also missed several weeks with a hamstring injury. He was limited to nine games, finishing the year with 47 receptions for 365 yards and one touchdown.
Engram’s injury concerns, coupled with his significant cap hit, likely contributed to the Jaguars’ decision to release him. While Engram’s on-field performance when healthy was valuable, the team apparently deemed the financial commitment and injury risk too high. His absence leaves a significant hole at the tight end position. The Jaguars’ current tight end depth chart consists of Brenton Strange, Shawn Bowman, and Patrick Murtagh, none of whom have Engram’s proven track record. It’s possible the team will seek to address the position through free agency or the draft.
The 30-year-old Engram, a former first-round pick by the New York Giants, now enters free agency with a chance to revitalize his career with a new team. Several teams in need of tight end help, such as the Los Angeles Chargers, Chicago Bears, and Denver Broncos, could be potential landing spots. Engram’s pass-catching ability and athleticism make him an attractive option for offenses seeking a dynamic playmaker at the tight end position.
The Jaguars’ decision to part ways with Kirk and Engram represents a bold strategy aimed at maximizing cap space and building a team for the long term. While the short-term impact of these moves may be felt on the field, the Jaguars are betting that the financial flexibility gained will allow them to make strategic additions and strengthen the roster in the future. Gladstone’s willingness to make difficult decisions underscores his commitment to creating a sustainable winning culture in Jacksonville. The coming months will reveal whether these moves prove to be fruitful as the Jaguars navigate free agency and the 2025 NFL Draft. The team’s actions are under a microscope as fans and analysts alike dissect the strategy behind these impactful personnel decisions.
