Jags Dump Dead Weight

By News Wire
Posted February 11, 2009

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From Michael C. Wright of Jacksonville.com:

The Jaguars  parted ways today with their two high-profile free agents from a year ago, cutting receiver Jerry Porter and cornerback Drayton Florence two days after NFL teams were allowed to begin releasing players.

Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio confirmed the moves, which will save the club approximately $8.3 million in salary between the two players for 2009. Florence was scheduled to make $1.9 million in base salary in 2009, in addition to a $2.5 million roster bonus. Porter was due to make $1.9 million in base salary with a $2 million roster bonus.

“In going through our personnel evaluations and roster analysis we are making decisions that we believe will help improve our team for the 2009 season and beyond,” said Jaguars general manager Gene Smith.

The under-producing duo pocketed a combined $16.5 million in salary and bonuses in 2008 (and a combined $23 million guaranteed total), but their on-field contributions didn’t fall in line with the club’s financial commitment to them.

Signed to a six-year, $30.4 million contract with $10 million guaranteed last offseason, Porter made nearly $1 million per catch (11 catches, 181 yards, 1 touchdown) before going on the injured reserve in mid December with an injured groin muscle.