The Jacksonville Jaguars worked hard to get their salary cap situation right this offseason, and while it cost them a lot of veteran talent, their salary cap will be quite healthy in 2021. In fact, Per Over the Cap, with a projected total of over $96.9 million set to be available for the Jags, only one team will have more available in the Indianapolis Colts with a projected amount of $116.1 million.
The Jags 2021 cap situation isn’t that shocking because of all of the veterans they parted ways with this offseason in quarterback Nick Foles, cornerback A.J. Bouye, and defensive lineman Calais Campbell via trade. They also parted ways with receiver Marqise Lee, who was set to be signed until 2021.
After all of those moves the Jags limited the amount of big contracts they handed out as Joe Schobert was the only player to make what would be called a “huge pay day.” His deal was a five-year, $53.75 million deal that includes $21.50 million.
With an abundance of cap space and nine draft selections, the Jags can take a significant step in 2021 with the right additions. They can also take care of some players with expiring contracts like running back Leonard Fournette (if their mind isn’t already made up), tackle Cam Robinson, receiver Dede Westbrook, and defensive end Dawuane Smoot to name a few. They could also push for a new extension with receiver D.J. Chark is he continues to grow in 2020.
The bigger question, however, is predicting who will get to spend 2021’s cash. Will it be general manager Dave Caldwell and coach Doug Marrone, or will it be another regime?
Right now, it’s honestly hard to see Shad Khan keeping Caldwell and Marrone if they have the same record as last year. However, if they get seven wins or more, Caldwell can add to what’s already in place and make the team a postseason caliber roster during the 2021 offseason.