The Jacksonville Jaguars started Tuesday off with some post-draft transactions, releasing linebackers Joe Giles-Harris and Nate Evans, and defensive backs Nate Meadors and Doug Middleton. The moves come as the Jags added nine draft selections and some undrafted free agents, but needed to get their roster back to the minimum number of players allowed on an offseason roster (90).
The #Jaguars announced that they are releasing four players on defense in LB Nate Evans, LB Joe Giles-Harris, CB Nate Meadors, and S Doug Middleton
— James Johnson (@SportsGrind_Don) May 4, 2021
Of the group, Middleton was the most experienced and 2020 marked his fifth season. He initially joined the Jags (for a second stint after being with them in 2019) through their practice squad in September. He ultimately played in 10 games for the team and was able to garner nine total tackles.
Giles-Harris was probably the most significant contributor as he made strides in 2020. He started in three games for the Jags in 2020 and was able to accumulate 20 total tackles. Giles-Harris also was able to register a Pro Football Focus grade of 75.6, which was the highest on the team though he only took 205 defensive snaps. That said, his release could be a simple case of the Jags moving to a new defensive system.
Meadors, who was a second-year player and Evans, who was an undrafted rookie last season, didn’t get to take any snaps with the team. They both were on the Jags’ practice squad last season though Meadors was activated against the Minnesota Vikings.
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