Jags Sign Fowler Despite ACL Tear

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Jacksonville Jaguars first round pick, Dante Fowler Jr., has signed a max rookie contract with the team, just four days after the rookie tore his left ACL during the Jaguars rookie mini camp. Fowler’s deal is reportedly worth $23.5 Million over 4 years. Fowler was drafted 3rd overall this year, and was the top ranked outside linebacker going into the draft, according to CBS Sports.

The 20 year old Florida alum, was simply a menace for Florida’s defense. The pass rusher had a remarkable season last year, as he recorded 60 tackles and 8.5 sacks for the Gators. The Jaguars had a hole at the Linebacker/Defensive End position, and they were relying on Fowler to get the job done this upcoming season. He had high hopes, and every heart in Jacksonville dropped when they heard the news.

The Jaguars now need to live without their prized rookie. They can look into their depth chart, or to free agency when it comes to a replacement. Veteran Lance Briggs is currently a free agent and I could see the Jaguars stepping in and making an offer to the former Chicago Bear. Another option could be that they were to look in their own camp for one, which I expect they will most likely do. It would be fairly simple to replace Fowler with Dan Skuta, or even move Telvin Smith over and look for a replacement at inside linebacker.

Even though the Jaguars don’t have Fowler for this, they will have him back at 100% next season, so the former Gator can begin a new chapter in the NFL.