Jacksonville Jaguars: Big three get extensions amid roster cuts

The Jacksonville Jaguars have given extensions to Tom Coughlin, Doug Marrone and Dave Caldwell while releasing Chris Ivory

On Friday, the Jacksonville Jaguars announced a few personnel moves. Tom Coughlin, Doug Marrone and Dave Caldwell received contract extensions.Chris Ivory, along with several other players, were released from the team.

Ryan O’Halloran of jacksonville.com reports Jaguars owner Shad Khan’s remark concerning the extensions:

"“isn’t so much a reward for last season, … as it is to recognize their importance to our football team … We’re past celebrating the accomplishments… it’s time to take the next step. We need the right leadership firmly in place to make that happen and it’s good to know we’ll have that with Tom, Dave and Doug secure in their roles with the Jacksonville Jaguars.”"

All three were given two-year contract extensions. They are signed through the 2021 season. Seems like the front office leadership is focusing upon bringing the Lombardi Trophy to Jacksonville.

Many fans were ready to part ways with Caldwell after the 2016 season. Caldwell deserves credit for attracting last seasons free agent signings. He has drafted very well. Marrone is giving the Jaguars offense a much needed identity. Jacksonville led the NFL in rushing due to the power run attack. Even Blake Bortles found redemption in this offense.

Most of all, Coughlin has the final decision concerning the 40 man roster. He has upgraded the roster talent through methodical moves. He is the guiding light helping to bring the Jaguars out of the lowly pit of mediocrity.

Jacksonville made a few more roster moves. Chris Ivory was released probably because of injuries and the emergence of Leonard Fournette. As a result, the Jaguars will gain $3.6 million in salary cap space, but will have $3.25 million in dead money.

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I’Tavius Mathers, Jarrod Harper, and Larry Pinkard were released as well. Currently, Jacksonville has a salary cap space of $28 million, according to Spotrac.com. Rather than pursuing high-dollar free agents, Jacksonville appears to be clearing cash to spend towards re-signing Aaron Colvin and Allen Robinson, per Jalen Ramsey’s requests.

There will be more roster moves before March 14. The defense is very good. Expect Jacksonville to actively build the offense this offseason.