December 11, 2011; Jacksonville FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew (32) runs with the ball during the first quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Jacksonville EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-US PRESSWIRE
The 2012-13 NFL season begins on Wednesday and just one week from today we will see a full slate of NFL action. One player, Maurice Jones-Drew of the Jacksonville Jaguars, was the lone holdout but reports are indicating that he will report to the team in advance of Week one. Adam Schefter reported the news today.
Jaguars head coach Mike Mularkey didn’t see to be aware of the news.
“I have not heard from Maurice,” said Mularkey. “I’ve heard those same things just like you have, but nothing from the people that need to tell its firm.”
It is no surprise that Jones-Drew returned to the Jaguars before weekly checks started clearing. However, even with Jones-Drew returning to the Jaguars, he is not expected to be the team’s starting running back in Week one. Rashad Jennings has been named the team’s starting back and gets the nod.
Jones-Drew’s return is also good news for Jaguars signal-caller Blaine Gabbert. Gabbert has looked good this preseason but he will only get better by having an All-Pro like Jones-Drew lining up in the backfield.
Jones-Drew will return to the Jaguars without the new deal he was seeking. Jacksonville has made it very clear that they will not give Jones-Drew a new contract this season. Jones-Drew has two-years, $9.5 million remaining on his contract.
