The Jacksonville Jaguars addressed their most pressing need on offense with the addition of tight end Tyler Eifert Tuesday. Due to his connection with Jags offensive coordinator Jay Gruden, the move could pay off in the end as it brings in a red zone threat who is familiar with the system.
With Eifert’s history with injuries, the key will be his ability to stay healthy as he’s only participated in 59 games over his seven year career. Despite that, he has the chance to earn $15.5 million over the course of his two-year deal, according to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, however, the rest of his contract specifics are unknown.
The #Jaguars signed TE Tyler Eifert to a 2-year deal worth $15.5M, source said. The former first rounder is back with his old coach, Jay Gruden, and fills a big need in Jax.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 25, 2020
Upon first glancing at Rapoport’s statements, fans probably won’t like that figure for the veteran but it’s worth noting that the deal is incentive based. That news was reported by the Associated Press’ Mark Long on Tuesday.
When looking at how they’ve done contracts in the past, it’s possible the deal will have an out in year two, with the guarantees mostly paid off. That way if the Jags get enough out of Eifert in 2020, they can make another decision next spring but that’s just pure speculation.
Eifert will enter 2020 with a career total of 185 catches, 2,152 yards and 24 touchdowns. When healthy he’s been a big-time red zone threat and could help Gardner Minshew II improve his play significantly in 2020.