Jaguars release Jason Babin
By Mike Dyce
The Jacksonville Jaguars made a somewhat surprising roster move on Thursday, releasing Jason Babin. Interesting fact, it is the second time in three months that the Jaguars have parted ways with Babin.
More from Jacksonville Jaguars
- NFL Power Rankings: Who is the best quarterback in each division?
- NFL Power Rankings: Which teams will have the best rushing attacks this season?
- NFL power rankings: Which teams will have the best defense this season?
- Trevor, start your engine: Jaguars’ temporary stadium could be NASCAR mecca
- Georgia-Florida rivalry set to move on campuses, but with a catch
On March 10, Babin’s contract was voided. He was slated to make $6 million a season over the two years remaining on the deal. The Jaguars then re-signed him three days later.
Unfortunately for Babin, the Jaguars bolstered up their defensive front and he appears to be the odd man out. The Jaguars signed defensive end Chris Clemons, defensive end Red Bryant and defensive tackle Ziggy Hood all in early March, and drafted defensive end Chris Smith.
Babin played at the Leo spot, which Pete Carroll defined as “the best pass rusher on the team is usually the defensive end to the open side of the field.”
Babin, 34, is an 11-year veteran in the league and started 16 games and registered 7.5 sacks in the 2013 season. He might not find another team quickly or sign with another team immediately, but as training camp approaches and players start getting banged up a market for Babin might develop.
Right off the bat you’d think the Cowboys would be looking at Babin if they could get him for a reasonable price with their struggles along the defensive line. Like the Jaguars though they’ve addressed the need signing a pair of tackles in free agency, Terrell McClain and Henry Melton, as well as re-signing defensive end Anthony Spencer and drafting DeMarcus Lawrence.
FOX’s Mike Garafolo says the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons are two pass-rush needy teams that could look at Babin.