Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker and defensive end Lerentee McCray will be opting out of the 2020 NFL season the team announced Saturday. With the veteran deciding to sit the 2020 season out because of concerns surrounding the coronavirus, he now joins veteran Al Woods as one of two Jags to opt out.
“With the health and safety of my family in mind, I have decided to opt out of the 2020 season during these trying times in ‘Our Nation.’ I will miss being there with my teammates, coaches and Jaguar personnel competing on Sundays, but I feel that God has directed my steps to make this decision,” McCray said via Jaguars.com.
“I was honored to be involved in our team’s social justice efforts during this offseason, and I look forward to continuing to support those affected in any way I can. My family and I appreciate the understanding and support of the Jaguars organization and our fans. We are praying and working for the health and safety for this great country! #toughtimesdontlasttoughpeopledo”
McCray’s decision comes after signing a one-year deal this spring to help bolster the Jags’ special teams. Prior to 2020, the Gainesville, Fla. native had been with the team since 2017, garnering 26 tackles and 2.5 career sacks with the Jags. Before coming to Duval in 2017, McCray also spent time with the Denver Broncos, Green Bay Packers, and Buffalo Bills.
When looking at players with similar skill sets, the Jags seem to have a few candidates who could fill McCray’s void like Aaron Lynch, who the Jags also have listed as a defensive end and linebacker. With it initially looking like Lynch was going to be a bubble player, it appears his chances to make the team have increased. He will be coming off a two-year tenure with the Chicago Bears and a four-year one with the San Francisco 49ers where he managed to garner 97 career tackles and 20 sacks.
With McCray opting out and over a handful of players on the Reserve/ COVID-19 list, the Jags’ roster figure is now at 81 players. Due to having four locker rooms to spread players out, the Jags could move closer to 85 players if they wanted, however, it’s unclear if they will add anyone after the decisions of McCray and Woods.