Jags Release Jerry Porter

A year ago, the Jaguars were fresh off an 11-win season, an appearance in the AFC Divisional playoffs, and seemingly primed to make a similar run in 2008. With their franchise quarterback in place, the front office targeted wide receiver and cornerback as two positions of need last offseason. That subsequently led to the team signing Jerry Porter and Drayton Florence.

Twelve months and $23 million dollars later, Jacksonville has seen enough: the club released both players today. Florence defended three passes and didn't register an interception in 15 games (eight starts). That performance is Hall of Fame worthy compared to Porter, however.

Signed to a six-year, $30.4 million contract with $10 million guaranteed last offseason, Porter made nearly $1 million per catch (11 catches, 181 yards, 1 touchdown) before going on the injured reserve in mid December with an injured groin muscle. ...

"In going through our personnel evaluations and roster analysis we are making decisions that we believe will help improve our team for the 2009 season and beyond,'' said Jaguars general manager Gene Smith.

Yes, I'd say dropping Porter will help improve the team for '09 and beyond.

This doesn't really change the Jags' offseason strategy -- they're still in the market for a wideout (Porter ranked ninth in receptions last season behind the likes of Fred Taylor and Greg Jones). Matt Jones finally showed signs of being a legit option (up till Week 15, anyhow), but David Garrard probably wouldn't mind having a No. 2 receiver that stands taller than 5-7.