Earlier in the month NFL insider Ian Rapoport joined Jags Wire for an episode of “Bleav in the Jags” and revealed that the Jacksonville Jaguars would have interest in veteran quarterback Andy Dalton if released.
Well, that time has come and he’s a free agent.
Since his release this morning many have come forward to confirm that the Jags are now looking into bringing Dalton in including a report from Tyler Dragon of the Cincinnati Enquirer, who also stated the New England Patriots have interest, too.
Afterward, NFL Network’s Steve Wyche also chimed in on the report, stating that his source, who is close to the situation, said the Jags’ interest in Dalton was “legitimate.” He added that the potential addition of Dalton is one that may put Minshew Mania “on hold” but said the Jags’ salary cap situation could be a snag in talks.
According to the NFLPA’s public salary cap report (generated daily, per their site), the Jags have over $18.6 million in available cap space. It’s unclear if that included the franchise tag assigned to Yannick Ngakoue (approximately worth $18 million), but one would assume so. With that being the case, the Jags could look to bring in Dalton on a “prove-it” type deal like the one Ryan Tannehill signed last season with the Tennessee Titans (worth $12 million with incentives and guaranteed $7 million).
The only issue they would have to worry about at that point is someone offering a better deal (as a backup or starter) as Wyche said. Then again, maybe he’ll be drawn to the Jags because of his familiarity with Gruden and the system, even if other offers are better. Regardless, fans should be on Dalton watch these next few days as the Jags clearly want him to join the organization.
