JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – After their big spending spree to kick off free agency, the Jaguars are releasing linebacker and fan favorite Myles Jack.
Jack was a second-round pick in the 2016 NFL draft and became a starter in his first season. He’d been a mainstay in Jacksonville’s lineup since his rookie season and missed just nine games due to injury.
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He spawned the catch phrase “Myles Jack wasn’t down,” in the 2017 AFC championship game against the Patriots, a saying that can still be seen around town on signage or clothing from time to time.
“Myles has made a positive contribution on and off the field in Jacksonville, providing leadership in our locker room as a captain and making a significant impact on the First Coast community,” general manager Trent Baalke said in a statement Tuesday. “His recognition as the team’s 2021 Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee is indicative of his commitment to inspiring positive change in those around him. We appreciate all he has done for our organization and wish him the best.”
Jack stripped a ball from New England’s Dion Lewis in the fourth quarter of that game and dashed toward the end zone for what should have been a touchdown. The officials whistled the play dead but replays clearly showed that Jack wasn’t down. New England went on to win 24-20.
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Jack had 513 tackles, 19 tackles for loss, four fumble recoveries and an interception.
Jack’s release comes a day after the Jaguars agreed to sign six free agents, including linebacker Foye Oluokun, the NFL’s leading tackler last season with 192.
Jack signed a four-year, $57 million contract extension with the team in 2019. He’ll carry a $4.8 million dead cap charge this season.
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Jack’s release means that the Jaguars have now cut or traded their last three Walter Payton Man of the Year nominees in the year that followed their nomination. Calais Campbell was dealt to the Ravens after he won the overall Payton honor in 2019. Josh Lambo, the 2020 nominee, was cut in season. And now Jack is out in Jacksonville.