Jags cut QB David Garrard
ESPN.com news services
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- The Jacksonville Jaguars have released veteran quarterback David Garrard, a stunning move that will save the franchise $9 million this season.
Whether it saves coach Jack Del Rio's job remains to be seen. Team owner Wayne Weaver has said Jacksonville needs to make the playoffs for Del Rio to stick around for a 10th season. Del Rio made it clear late last season that he had grown tired of Garrard's inconsistent ways.
Del Rio's quarterback swap is similar to what he did in 2007, when he released Byron Leftwich in favor of Garrard after the preseason. This time, though, Del Rio has been steadfast that Garrard was the starter.
Garrard missed the preseason opener because of a sore back, but started the final three games. He completed 50 percent of his passes for 216 yards, with no touchdowns and an interception.
Luke McCown is expected to start the opener against the Tennessee Titans.
Rookie Blaine Gabbert, drafted 10th overall in April's draft, was to begin the season as the third-string quarterback but now will be McCown's backup.
The 33-year-old Garrard threw for 2,734 yards in 2010, with 23 touchdown passes and 15 interceptions. He also enjoyed five of the best eight games of his nine-year career.
McCown, 30, attempted just 19 passes last season, completing 11 in a Sept. 19 loss to the San Diego Chargers. He has a 74.8 career quarterback rating with nine touchdowns and 10 interceptions.
