Jacksonville Jaguars Depth Chart: Cornerback Shakeup Ahead

After tearing his ACL least season, Rashean Mathis will make his 2012 debut for the Jacksonville Jaguars in their next preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens. Mathis is expected to be the No. 1 cornerback when the season begins.

The Jaguars, though, plan to ease him into that role.

The starters are supposed to go deep into the second half, but the Jaguars are unlikely to let him play that long in his first appearance. Still, Mathis might lobby to play a bit longer than the coaches want him to.

Mathis and Aaron Ross are expected to be the starting cornerbacks in the preseason game. However, when Derek Cox returns from a hamstring injury, Ross will likely slide over to the nickel corner.

For the latest on the Jacksonville Jaguars, be sure to check out Big Cat Country and SB Nation Tampa. Head over to SB Nation's NFL hub for even more NFL news. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube Channel for video commentary.

Jaguars Depth Chart Loser: Whimper, Henne Subpar Against Saints

The Jacksonville Jaguars had a couple of players who had a chance to impress Mike Mularkey in their preseason game against the New Orleans Saints on Aug. 17, but for one reason or another were unable to step up to the occasion.

Alfie Crow at Big Cat Country noted a few players who were unable to improve their spot on the Jags depth chart. Offensive tackle Guy Whimper had a chance to make a case for a starting position after he was pushed into the starting lineup with Eugene Monroe's injury, but he made some major mistakes in the Jags' passing game,

Guy Whimper, Offensive Tackle: It's not much of a surprise to anyone that Whimper struggled in pass protection when thrust back into the starting lineup. The Jaguars seem to like him as a swing backup offensive tackle, but his struggles in pass protection make him a real liability on the offensive line.

Chad Henne looks set as Blaine Gabbert's backup at quarterback this season, but his play has been underwhelming so far this training camp and that continued against New Orleans,

Chad Henne, Quarterback: According to the coaching staff, Henne will continue to be the backup quarterback despite his poor play, which should be no surprise since the team paid him a $3 million signing bonus. Henne continues to struggle though, and while he is playing with backups he's also playing against backups.

Read more on the Jaguars at Big Cat Country and SB Nation Tampa Bay.

Jaguars Depth Chart Winners: Cloherty, Schaffer Make Case For Final Roster

The Jacksonville Jaguars have a couple of tough decisions to make when it comes to who makes the final 53-man roster. Alfie Crow of Big Cat Country saw a few on-the-bubble players who stood out during the Jaguars' Aug. 17, 2012, preseason game against the New Orleans Saints.

The offensive player that made the biggest impression on Crow was tight end Colin Cloherty, who continues to impress this preseason after a strong finish to 2011:

Colin Cloherty, Tight End: Cloherty has been someone a lot of fans have been high on after making a few plays when he was signed late in the 2011 season. On Friday night, Cloherty was second on the team in receptions and receiving yards with 3 catches for 35 yards, including a touchdown reception from quarterback Blaine Gabbert. Cloherty has turned some heads as a receiving tight end and may prove himself a tough cut.

On the defensive side of the ball, Crow sees undrafted rookie J.K. Schaffer taking advantage of opportunities afforded by the injuries that have plagued the Jacksonville linebacker corps:

J.K. Schaffer, Linebacker: Schaffer is an undrafted free agent out of Cincinnati and has been pushed up the depth chart with injuries at the linebacker position. He's shown some ability to get sideline to sideline and pursue the ballcarrier, as well as being a sure tackler. If Schaffer can show ability on special teams, he's got a shot.

Read more on the Jaguars at Big Cat Country and SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub.

Jaguars Rookie Report: Andre Branch Impressing

Jacksonville Jaguars rookie defensive end Andre Branch is impressing in training camp. So much so, that he's earning the public praise of head coach Mike Mularkey.

Mularkey said this of Branch at his press conference:

"He's been playing pretty well. He's really playing well and really done very good in the run game as well. When you have guys that come off the edge with some speed you always have concern about the run game whether they can hold up against the big tackles and things. I think for being a rookie and being thrown right into this starting lineup like that I think he's done really well. Ithink he's going to just keep getting better. Joe Cullen, we call it setting an edge, kind of basically try to contain the offense. In order to do that you've got to win the one on one against the tackle and I think he's held up pretty well. I think he will get better at it as well. You've seen George Selvie do it. George has basically pushed the tackle back into the running back in the back field and Andre is heading that way.

Jacksonville spent a second round pick on Branch, selecting him with the No. 38 overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft. Branch was a first team All-ACC pick with Clemson in 2011, recording 77 tackles and 10.5 sacks.

For the latest on the Jaguars, head over to Big Cat Country.

Jaguars Mike Mularkey 'A Little Bit Surprised,' By Justin Blackmon's Debut

Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Mike Mularkey said that he was 'a little bit surprised' by Justin Blackmon's performance against the New Orleans Saints. In his preseason debut, Blackmon caught four passes for 48 yards and a touchdown.

Blackmon didn't sign his rookie contract until August 6 and missed the team's first preseason game against the New York Giants. Mularkey spoke to the press about Blackmon's debut performance, in particular his touchdown pass.

A little bit, yeah. I was surprised. I didn't really see how close the coverage was on the touchdown. A number of the catches that he made are catches that if you extend your hands are tough to defend.

There were concerns entering the game that Blackmon may have gotten tired earlier considering he had missed out on quite a bit of team conditioning in the early days of training camp. Mularkey is certainly encouraged by his performance, especially his body control.

That's hard to do to concentrate like that. Especially your first game with tight coverage to do that, snag it, and do something after the catch I was very pleased. It's what he did after the catch. I thought he did a great job

The Jaguars next preseason game is against the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday night at 7:30 p.m.

Read more on the Jaguars at Big Cat Country and SB Nation Tampa Bay.

Eugene Monroe Injury Update: Jags OT Still Not Practicing

Jaguars left tackle Eugene Monroe is still not practicing with the team and seems unlikely to play in Jacksonville's Week 3 preseason game on Thursday night against the Saints. It had been reported days ago that Monroe was traveling with the team but unlikely to play after suffering a concussion last Wednesday during practice.

Tyson Alualu, who recently made the switch from defensive tackle to offensive tackle, is expected to start in Monroe's place. No official timetable for Monroe's return has been set, but keeping him out of Thursday's game is a precaution considering this is a head injury and Monroe hasn't practiced in almost a week.

The Jags have seen their fair share of issues on the offensive line, with injuries to Will Rackley (high ankle sprain), guard Jason Spitz (foot injury) and center John Estes (knee injury)

Read more on the Jaguars at Big Cat Country and SB Nation Tampa Bay.

Jaguars Depth Chart: Chad Henne To Remain No. 2 QB

Former Dolphins quarterback Chad Henne will remain the Jacksonville Jaguars' No. 2 quarterback, head coach Mike Mularkey said Sunday. The former Michigan standout signed with the Jags this offseason to back up Blaine Gabbert, and, despite subpar performances in the preseason so far, he hasn't relinquished that spot on the depth to Jordan Palmer, who has played well with the third team.

Here's what Mularkey said about Henne's job so far this preseason, one in which he's gone 8-18 for 64 yards and an interception, according to Jaguars.com writer John Oehser.

"You have to realize that Chad has been playing with the second group a high percentage of the practices, and a high percentage of the preseason games," Mularkey said. "I wish we had the same level of talent on the first and second, but that's just not the way it is. That has something do with it."

Despite Palmer's effectiveness, he still might not be a sure thing for a roster spot. Mularkey has reportedly not decided whether to keep two or three quarterbacks on the roster.

For more Jaguars football, visit Big Cat Country.

Jaguars Depth Chart: Terrance Knighton Back On 1st Team Defense

Terrance Knighton's road back from an eye injury may be nearing an end after the defensive tackle spent a large portion of Sunday's practice working with the Jaguars' No. 1 defense, according to the AP's Mark Long. C.J. Mosley started Friday night at defensive tackle against the Saints and has been listed on the team's depth chart ahead of Knighton.

An offseason incident at a nightclub left Knighton with an eye injury that required surgery. That kept him out of offseason workouts and had him way behind others when training camp opened.

Knighton has been a fixture on the defensive line since he was taken by Jacksonville in the first round of the 2010 draft. An ankle injury last season forced him to miss the first three games of his career but he has otherwise started every game for the Jaguars.

For the latest on the Jacksonville Jaguars, be sure to check out Big Cat Country and SB Nation Tampa. Head over to SB Nation's NFL hub for even more NFL news. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube Channel for video commentary.

Jaguars Injury Report: Eugene Monroe Still Out

Jaguars left tackle Eugene Monroe missed Sunday's practice with the Jaguars as he continues to recover from a possible concussion that he suffered last week in practice. Monroe sat out Friday night's game against the Saints but did travel with the team which seemed to indicate that the injury wasn't serious.

However, Monroe missed practice again on Sunday and there has been little news in regards to his status. Cameron Bradfield started in Monroe's place at left tackle and performed well. Bradfield had been listed as the starter at right tackle going into Friday's game but was given the opportunity to show off his versatility.

He has made two starts in his career and has also spent time at guard. He figures to find himself aligned somewhere on the offensive line for the Jaguars once the season begins.

Derek Cox, Leigh Torrence, Keith Toston, Brock Bolen, Daryl Smith, Clint Session, John Estes, Drew Nowak, Jason Spitz, Austen Lane and John Chick also missed practice on Sunday.

For the latest on the Jacksonville Jaguars, be sure to check out Big Cat Country and SB Nation Tampa. Head over to SB Nation's NFL hub for even more NFL news. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube Channel for video commentary.

Maurice Jones-Drew Holdout: Time For Jaguars RB To Show Up

The preseason is halfway over and Maurice Jones-Drew still isn't practicing with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Gene Frenette at Jacksonville.com says enough is enough.

MJD has accrued over $780,000 in fines during his now-25-day holdout, but apart from the monetary side the All-Pro running back has yet to see any of new coach Mike Mularkey's offensive system. The Jaguars' first team offense looked pretty good against the New Orleans Saints this past weekend (particularly fellow skill players Blaine Gabbert and rookie Justin Blackmon), and Frenette thinks it's time MJD jumps on board, going so far as to say he owes the Jaguars:

"I know, being the NFL rushing leader last season, you feel like you've outperformed that contract extension the Jaguars handed out in 2009. People understand a running back's shelf life is limited. But because you took the immediate financial security (collecting $21.85 million in the first three years) the team offered, it can rightfully be argued the Jaguars deserve a reward on the back end by not extending your deal with two years remaining."

GM Gene Smith has already said he expects Jones-Drew to fulfill the last two years of his contract. The Jaguars open the season Sept. 9 against the Minnesota Vikings.

For the latest on the Jacksonville Jaguars, be sure to check out Big Cat Country and SB Nation Tampa Bay. Head over to SB Nation's NFL hub for even more NFL news. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube Channel for video commentary.

Jaguars Training Camp 2012: Blaine Gabbert Looks To Prove He Isn't 'Scared'

Blaine Gabbert isn't scared. That's what the Jacksonville Jaguars' second-year starting quarterback is looking to show the world coming off a disastrous rookie season in which he was sacked 40 times and lost five fumbles. His 65.4 passer rating was the worst in the league.

But as the former No. 10 overall pick from Missouri told Yahoo! Sports' Michael Silver, it doesn't really matter what the critics say. He's here to show he belongs.

“I think that's part of our job description: Deal with the crap. But for people to say [I'm scared], I just don't understand it. They've never played in the NFL. They really don't know what goes on, or what happens.”

Gabbert did his part to show he belongs in the NFL in Friday night's 27-24 preseason win over the New Orleans Saints, completing 13 of 16 passes for 112 yards and two touchdowns, including one strike to new No. 1 wide receiver Justin Blackmon.

For the latest on the Jacksonville Jaguars, be sure to check out Big Cat Country and SB Nation Tampa. Head over to SB Nation's NFL hub for even more NFL news. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube Channel for video commentary.

Maurice Jones-Drew Holdout: Jaguars Owner Not Worried About Holdout

New Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shahid Khan isn't stressing much about his team's best offensive player, Maurice Jones-Drew, holding out for more money than the $9.5 million dollars he's set to make during the team's 2012 campaign.

Khan told NFL.com that it is Jones-Drew's decision to sit out, not his:

"He's not here, and that's his decision," said Khan, who acknowledged that he met privately with Jones-Drew last month. "Believe me, it's not a great concern. You hope for the best, and you plan for the worst. Our goals for the season don't change, and if he isn't here, he isn't here. I don't control it. It's his choice."

Maurice Jones-Drew led the NFL in rushing last season and holding out seems counter-productive as his absence from training camp is costing him $30,000 per day in fines from the team.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Tampa Bay. For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars, visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Maurice Jones-Drew Holdout: Rashad Jennings Will Be First To Welcome Him Back

Jacksonville Jaguars running back Rashad Jennings spoke about several different topics during a recent interview, including Maurice Jones-Drew's holdout.

"It’s a nice vibe that’s rolling around here in Jacksonville. … Whenever everything’s taken care of from the other side, which as a ball player we all know our lanes, but when that day comes that everything’s taken care of, when he walks back in the locker room, I’ll be the first person — of many — to welcome him with open arms."

Related: Jaguars QB Blaine Gabbert Learned To Take Criticism Early

Jennings missed all of 2011 because of a knee injury. In 2010, he ran for 459 yards and scored four touchdowns.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Tampa Bay. For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars, visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Eugene Monroe Injury Update: Jaguars' LT Has Possible Concussion

Jacksonville's offensive line was already beginning to thin out with injuries, and that thinning might get worse if left tackle Eugene Monroe's injury is, in fact, a concussion.

Monroe suffered the injury in practice Wednesday after getting hit in the head, and left the field on a cart. Thursday, it's still not clear what the injury was or whether it will affect Monroe's availability for Fridays' preseason game against the New Orleans Saints. The former No. 8 pick is the incumbent starter at left tackle.

The offensive line was supposed to be a strength for the Jaguars with five starters returning. But with Will Rackley out with a high ankle sprain, backup guard Jason Spitz out for a month, and backup center John Estes out for the season with a knee injury, the offensive line is beginning to look ragtag. This has to be of concern to Blaine Gabbert, and also can't be enticing when dealing with Maurice Jones-Drew, who is still holding out.

For more on the Jaguars, check out Big Cat Country.

Jaguars' Richard Murphy Has LSU Championship Rings Stolen

Jaguars TE Marcedes Lewis Doesn't Remember The 2011 Season

Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Marcedes Lewis had a tough 2011 season, and as the start of the 2012 regular season approaches, he's forgetting about last year's performance and focusing on what's ahead.

"I don’t remember last year,’’ Lewis said.

Last season was one to forget for Lewis. He caught just 39 passes, none for touchdowns. In 2010, Lewis caught 58 passes, 10 for touchdowns, to earn Pro Bowl honors and a five-year, $35 million contract.

Related: Maurice Jones-Drew Holdout: Rashad Jennings Will Be First To Welcome Him Back

Offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski wants Blaine Gabbert to target Lewis more often in 2012, and notes that the tight end's production was hindered in part because the Jaguars offense just didn't get into the red zone very often.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jaguars Depth Chart: Montell Owens The No. 2 RB

The Jaguars are still without their star running back, and the NFL's leading rusher in 2011, Maurice Jones-Drew. While Rashad Jennings will fill in as Jones-Drew is unavailable, the Jaguars have announced that Montell Owens will serve as the backup running back.

Owens has just 14 carries in his 6-year NFL career, but Coach Mike Mularkey has expressed his faith: "He’s done a lot of good things. Third down, he’s been very good. Every opportunity he’s had to carry the ball, he’s shown some good running skills.’’

On Friday night against the Giants, Owens carried the ball five times for 20 yards, including a 7-yard touchdown.

Though most people still expect Jones-Drew to return before the start of the season, it's not clear that he would immediately become the starter. Said Mularkey, "Even if he is in good condition, he won’t be in football condition." In that case, Owens might see some playing time in the season-opener against the Vikings.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jaguars Depth Chart: Maurice Jones-Drew Won't Start Immediately When He Shows Up

When Jacksonville Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew shows up to Jaguars training camp, the Pro Bowler will not immediately jump to the top of the depth chart, head coach Mike Mularkey told reporters following Tuesday's practice. Via Vito Stellino of the Florida Times-Union:

"I think it would be a disservice to put him in if he was not prepared. It would be a health risk to do that. If he’s not prepared it’s not going to help us offensively and it’s not going to help our team if he’s not ready to go at full strength. I will never put our team in jeopardy of being in that position."

Fourth-year back Rashad Jennings would reportedly continue to be listed as the starter.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jaguars Injury Update: Offensive Line Running Thin

Injuries are always a part of the NFL, especially when it comes to training camp. The Jacksonville Jaguars are certainly no exception and are battling injuries on both the defensive and offensive lines. But the problems on the O-line are much more serious for the Jags.

Backup center John Estes underwent surgery on his knee and could be out for the season. Guard Jason Spitz suffered a foot injury during the first week of training camp and Will Rackley suffered a high ankle sprain and is expected to be out anywhere from three to four weeks.

Hopefully the team can get some of these key players back in time for the start of the regular season.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jaguars Training Camp: Jeremiah Brown Waived, Mike Holmes Added To Roster

According to the official Jacksonville Jaguars Twitter page, the team has signed cornerback Mike Holmes to a one-year contract.

Jaguars signed 1st-year CB Mike Holmes and waived safety Jeremiah Brown. Holmes played at Mandarin High School in Jacksonville.

— jaguarsinsider (@jaguarsinsider) August 14, 2012

Holmes played at Syracuse before going undrafted in 2011. He was initially signed by the Chicago Bears before landing with the Indianapolis Colts in October of 2011. He made the team's active roster and appeared in three games. Indianapolis waived Holmes in May.

The cornerback should have a solid local following as he played his prep ball in the Jacksonville area at Mandarin High School.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jaguars Roster Moves: WR Charles Gilbert Waived, LB Nate Bussey Claimed Off Waivers

The Jaguars picked up LB Nate Bussey and parted ways with WR Charles Gilbert on Monday.

Jaguars Training Camp News: Lee Evans Waived While Taylor Price To Be Placed On Injured Reserve

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Lee Evans did not appear in the team's game against the defending Super Bowl Champion New York Giants not because of injury, but because the team had waived him, according to Vito Stellino of The Florida Times-Union.

Evans, who last played with the Baltimore Ravens in 2011, was viewed as a potential long-shot to make the Jaguars, as his inconsistent play over the years frustrated the teams he played for.

Another report from Stellino says that the team has also placed injured wide receiver Taylor Price on the waived injured list. If he clears waivers, he will head to the IR.

Stellino said the team is expecting to sign an offensive lineman and a receiver due to the rash of injuries to both positions.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Justin Blackmon Agrees To Terms With Jaguars

Justin Blackmon has finally agreed to terms with the Jacksonville Jaguars and will sign his contract tomorrow, according to a tweet by Vito Stellino.

Justin Blackmon agreed to terms and will probably sign contract tomorrow to end his holdout.

— Vito Stellino(@vitostellino) August 6, 2012

Terms of his contract have not yet been announced.

Blackmon was drafted by the Jaguars with the No. 5 back in April in the 2012 NFL Draft. The reason that has yet to sign his rookie deal, probably stems from his DUI arrest in Stillwater, Okla. back in June. Despite this signing, Blackmon will likely not play for the Jaguars' in their first preseason game against the New York Giants on Friday.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jaguars Training Camp: Jason Spitz Out 2-3 Weeks

The Jacksonville Jaguars have yet another offensive line injury to report. This time guard Jason Spitz is dealing with a foot injury that will keep him out of action somewhere between two and three weeks, according to head coach Mike Mularkey.

Big Cat Country reports:

"He's got a sprained foot as well. He will be two to three weeks," Mularkey said after practice on Sunday about Spitz's injury.

The Jaguars are also without guard Will Rackley. He has a high ankle sprain that will keep him out of the entire preseason, at least.

Left tackle Eugene Monroe returned to practice after missing a week of action. Cameron Bradfield, a utility tackle, returned from the PUP list.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jacksonville Jaguars Cheer On Sanya Richards-Ross

Jaguars Scrimmage: Blaine Gabbert Solid, Mike Mularkey Pleased With Offense

The first scrimmage under lights at EverBank Field is in the books for the Jaguars and second-year starting quarterback Blaine Gabbert had an impressive showing. Gabbert and the offense were in rhythm, and the QB hit almost all of his throws in the limited opportunity scrimmage setting. He finished 10 of 13 for 91 yards and touchdown and after the scrimmage, he spoke about the offense:

"Yeah we started clicking. We got in a rhythm right there. Hit some big runs. Rashad and the O-Line did a great job again especially on the check downs when they were dropping in coverage. The receivers took their coverage deep and opened some stuff up underneath. But yeah we started clicking, getting in that rhythm, started flowing and moved the ball pretty well."

"I think he had a good night. Again, I am not quick to judge because I like to really dissect it when I watch the film. I just felt like out here that he had a good night. He made some nice throws. He had a nice throw down on the first drive to Cecil (Shorts) and we've got to make some plays like that. When you stick the ball in like that you've got to make those plays. I was pleased with Blaine."

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jaguars Training Camp News: Mike Mularkey Seeing Progress From Blaine Gabbert

In his report on the Jacksonville Jaguars for CBS Sports, Pete Priscoe spoke with Jags head coach Mike Mularkey who had some encouraging words about the progress of young quarterback Blaine Gabbert.

"I don't see some of the things last year I saw on tape," Mularkey said. "I see him much more balanced in the pocket. He is accurate. To his left, he still has some errant throws...He has a lot of confidence about him. He hasn't let any of the stuff written about him get to him."

Gabbert has been under a lot of criticism for his play during his rookie campaign in 2011. The fact that Mularkey is impressed with some of Gabbert's abilities should give fans hope that he can make strides forward in 2012.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jaguars Training Camp: Justin Blackmon Contract Negotiations Reaching Critical Point

The Jaguars are one full week in to training camp and the offense has been far behind the defense early. That could be due in part to the fact that No. 5 overall selection in the 2012 NFL Draft, Justin Blackmon, has yet to reach a contract agreement to allow him to start his time at the 2012 training camp.

Instead Blackmon has been unable to work with the offense of his new team and considering a new rule that forces players to wait four days after reporting until they can hit the practice fields, a deal done between Blackmon and the Jaguars needs to get done soon.

Said Alfie Crow of SB Nation's Big Cat Country, the time is now for a deal to get done:

It's reached the point in which Blackmon is essentially going to miss live bullets because he, his agent, and the Jaguars can't hammer out a contract. The two sides are at a stalemate right now, with neither side looking as if they'll budge, but it's going to have to be Blackmon who caves. The issue, from what I've heard, is the team wants the ability to be relieved of guaranteed money owed to Blackmon if he screws up off the field again and the team releases him. First-round pick contracts are virtually fully guaranteed under the new rules, so the team wants something in place if they're forced to cut Blackmon because of an off the field incident.

The first preseason game for the Jaguars will take place on Friday, August 10 at 7:30 p.m. ET at Everbank Field against the New York Giants.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jaguars Training Camp: Laurent Robinson Cleared, Two Defensive Players Out

The Jacksonville Jaguars got one bit of good news on Thursday, with the return of wide receiver Laurent Robinson to practice. He was suspected to have a concussion, but has been cleared to play. Unfortunately, the Jaguars are going to be missing a couple of defensive players for the near future.

Mularkey says Austen lane prob out 2 weeks w/foot sprain and Daryl Smith (groin) will miss a week. Laurent Robinson back @ practice

— John Oehser (@JohnOehser) August 2, 2012

Lane is competing for time at defensive end and will almost certainly be frustrated with his injury, but he shouldn't miss more than one preseason game. At linebacker, Brandon Marshall should have some more opportunities to play in the absence of Smith.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jaguars Training Camp: Mike Thomas Struggling, Wide Receiver Falls Down The Depth Chart

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Mike Thomas has been struggling in the opening stages of training camp this year. The struggles are so bad that he has been bumped down the depth chart behind fellow receiver Cecil Shorts, according to The Florida Times-Union's Vito Sellino.

Mike Thomas has struggled in camp and the Jaguars moved second-year receiver Cecil Shorts ahead of him. Shorts is now practicing with the first team at the Z position, which Blackmon is expected to fill when he arrives.

The demotion means that the Jaguars now have a pretty expensive backup. This past March the Jaguars gave him a $3.5 million roster bonus and $1.45 million of his current contract is guaranteed.

This is all before wide receiver Justin Blackmon has shown up, if he takes the spot that Shorts has, that means that Thomas could potentially be third string on the roster entering the 2012-13 season. If that's the case it could spell trouble for the receiver's future. After catching 66 passes in 2010, his productivity dropped to 44 catches for 415 and only one touchdown in 2011.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Daryl Smith, Austen Lane Injuries: Jaguars Defensive Players Suffer Injuries

On Wednesday, Bucky Brooks of NFL.com told readers not to be surprised if the Jaguars had the top ranked defense in the NFL in 2012. On Thursday, two key defensive players for the Jaguars were carted off the practice field at training camp with injuries.

Defensive end Austen Lane went down with a right ankle injury during drills according to reports and was unable to put pressure on it as he was helped off the field. Injured later in practice was linebacker Daryl Smith, the franchise's all-time leader in tackles, limped off the practice field late in practice with a strained groin and was carted back to the stadium with Lane.

Lane is in the midst of a battle with rookie Andre Branch for the starting defensive end opposite Jeremy Mincey, while Smith has been a starting linebacker for the Jaguars since the team drafted him in 2004.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jaguars Sign Running Back Keith Toston, Waive Tight End Gijon Robinson

With no imminent end in sight for Maurice Jones-Drew's holdout from Jaguars training camp, the team has been down a running back roster spot since the opening of camp. The Jaguars chose to quell need by announcing the signing of running back Keith Toston on Thursday, waiving Gijon Robinson to open the space on the roster.

Toston made the final roster for the St. Louis Rams in 2010 as an undrafted free agent and played in all 16 games for the team. However, he was waived by the Rams in the final cuts prior to the 2011 regular season and was not signed by another team through the season.

Robinson was signed by the Jaguars less than a week prior to his release on Friday, July 27.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jaguars Training Camp News: Will Rackley Out 3-4 Weeks

Jacksonville Jaguars guard Will Rackley will miss three to four weeks with a high ankle sprain, the team said at its Wednesday practice. Rackley went down in practice on Tuesday and was later seen on the field with crutches. The injuries up front are a concern to head coach Mike Mularkey.

Mularkey says it's a concern that O line has so many guys dinged up. Rackley will be out 3-4 weeks with right ankle. OUCH!

— Eugene Frenette (@GeneFrenette) August 1, 2012

In the meantime, Jason Spitz will work in Rackley's spot with the starters. A third-round pick in 2011, Rackley beat out Spitz for a starting job last season, and went on to make 14 starts as a rookie.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

No Progress In Jaguars, Justin Blackmon Contract Talks

The Jacksonville Jaguars got down to business again on Wednesday morning, hitting the field for another practice. Once again, rookie wide receiver Justin Blackmon was not on the field with his new team. The Jaguars and the first-round pick are still trying to forge a contract, and the latest report from Pro Football Talks says the two sides are no closer to a deal than they were talks started.

Specifics of the holdup in contract talks are unknown. The Jaguars are believed to be seeking some sort of protection in the deal following Blackmon's arrest over the summer for DUI. Off-field concerns weighed on his draft stock prior to Jaguars selecting him.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jaguars Training Camp News: Will Rackley Carted Off Practice

In the first practice with full pads, the Jaguars got off to a bad start on Tuesday with starting offensive lineman Will Rackley reportedly getting carted off the field with an ankle injury. With the practice open to the public, multiple fans and media members tweeted about the injury.

Rackley was one of only two starting offensive lineman participating fully in the practice and left only Eben Britton among a line of backups after getting carted off. Britton was moved to the left tackle position, while 2011 starter filled Britton's usual spot at right tackle.

Offensive tackle Eugene Monroe spent the Tuesday morning practice on the stationary bike with his knee wrapped and center Brad Meester appeared to have received a veteran day off of practice.

The Jaguars also announced on Tuesday that they waived cornerback T.J. Heath, but did not announce a signing to fill the roster spot.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jaguars Training Camp News: Trumaine McBride Placed On Injured Reserve

As if losing corner back Reggie Corner wasn't bad enough, news broke today that the Jacksonville Jaguars will place fellow corner back Trumaine McBride on injured reserve, according to the team's official twitter page.

#Jaguars sign 4th-year CB Trumaine McBride and place veteran CB Reggie Corner on injured reserve.

— jaguarsinsider (@jaguarsinsider) July 30, 2012

McBride only played one game for the Jaguars last season. and has played for the Chicago Bears and the Arizona Cardinals in his career. The Jaguars, now having lost two corner backs on the roster are now more than likely going to look for some more help to improve the depth at that position. Jaguars fans have to hope that the depth can help

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jaguars Training Camp News: Reggie Corner Headed To IR

Reggie Corner, the Jacksonville Jaguars' appropriately named cornerback, will land on the injured reserve list after injuring his knee at the team's practice on Saturday. Corner will first be waived as an injured player before coming back to the Jaguars and landing on IR, according to Tania Ganguli.

Corner was actually waived/injured and will revert to IR after clearing waivers. #Jaguars

— Tania Ganguli (@taniaganguli) July 30, 2012

Corner was signed a free agent in June, brought in to bolster the Jaguars' depth at the position. He was the main slot corner for the Bills in 2010, but saw his playing time in Buffalo slashed drastically last season. Corner was battling for a roster spot in Jacksonville.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jaguars, Justin Blackmon Are Talking

If the 2011 season made anything clear for the Jacksonville Jaguars, it was the team's need for help at wide receiver. General manager Gene Smith made two major attempts to address that in the offseason, signing free agent Laurent Robinson and drafting Oklahoma State's Justin Blackmon in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft. Blackmon has yet to sign a contract with the team, keeping him off the practice field, but the two sides are talking.

Pro Football Talk reported late Sunday evening that Blackmon and the Jaguars are working almost daily to hammer out a deal for the fifth overall pick in the draft. The kink in the process is Blackmon's DUI arrest in Oklahoma over the summer.

The Jaguars are reportedly seeking some protection in their financial commitment to Blackmon, something to protect them should his off-field incidents cause problems in the future. The nature of those protections are holding up a deal that needs to get done sooner rather than later in order for the team to get more help for second-year quarterback Blaine Gabbert on the field.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jaguars Training Camp: Receivers Struggling Early

For the Jacksonville Jaguars, success in 2012 will hinge in large part on how well second-year quarterback Blaine Gabbert plays. The former Missouri Tiger will need plenty of help from his receivers. Gabbert has done his part through the early portion of training camp, but head coach Mike Mularkey is chiding his pass catchers to hold up their end of the bargain.

Mularkley told the Florida Times-Union over the weekend that the receivers had to do more:

"We've got to do a better job. We've got to make more catches. We've had plenty of opportunities to make some catches down the field, and we've got to make them. It's hard to get the ball deep and accurate and catchable and then not make them. We need to start doing that [making them]. One thing that's come out of the first couple of days is that we're not making the plays that are there."

First-round pick Justin Blackmon missed all of camp so far as he and the team hammer out a contract, a process delayed because of his DUI arrest in Oklahoma this summer.

Free agent acquisition Laurent Robinson has been on the field with the team, but has struggled. Mularkey wondered openly whether or not the veteran receiver was "pressing" in camp, but expressed confidence that he would work through his struggles.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Terrance Knighton Injury: Jaguars DT, 2 Others Cleared For Practice

The Jacksonville Jaguars received some encouraging news after practice on Sunday, as defensive tackle Terrance Knighton, along with tight end Zach Miller and guard Uche Nwaneri were all cleared for practice after passing physicals, according to Adam Caplan.

In three NFL seasons, Knighton has compiled 108 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and one forced fumble. He has been a key component of the Jaguars defense since being drafted in 2009.

Miller is a depth piece at tight end for the Jags, as he has started just five games in his three-year career for the team and only played in four games in 2011.

Nwaneri is entering his sixth season with the Jaguars and has started every game for the team each of the last two seasons.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jaguars Training Camp News: Marcedes Lewis Out Of Shape

After spending his offseason in California training in Mixed Martial Arts with Fox analist Jay Glazer, Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Marcedes Lewis is still "out of shape" according to head coach Mike Mularkey.

It was reported that Lewis was able to make some good catches, but his current physical condition did not impress Mularkey, who was expecting to see more polished performace as camp began.

Lewis is coming off the worst year of his six-year NFL career where he failed to pull in a single touchdown after hauling in 10 scores in 2010. Mularkey does believe that Lewis will be able to get in shape by the time camp ends.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Clint Session Seems Resigned To His Possible Post-NFL Fate

Clint Session of the Jacksonville Jaguars suffered two concussions in the same game against the Cleveland Browns last November which knocked him out for the season. In a recent interview with The Florida Times-Union, Session cited his desire to "win" and "contribute" as a major factor for hiding his injury from the team.

Brain injury and concussions have been a major topic of discussion around the NFL of late. With many former players suffering from CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy) and taking their own lives in some of the most severe cases. As a result, the league has taken a very serious and aggressive approach to protecting their athletes at all costs.

But despite their prevention attempts, their hands are tied if the player hides his injury like Sessions did. The saddest part of all is that if CTE is a part of his life after football, it's something he seems to have already accepted:

Does he worry that he might meet the same fate as former players as young as in their 40s and 50s suffering the consequences of brain injuries?

"I think that is probably something that is already probably going to happen," Session said. "I can't control that. Probably Too late for that right there."

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jaguars Training Camp: Players Facing Fines If Injuries Revealed

Don't expect to hear too many details about injuries -- at least not from the players themselves.

Following the Jacksonville Jaguars' first day of training camp on Friday, new head coach Mike Mularkey announced one new policy change: a fine. According to Mularkey, players will now be fined $10,000 should they reveal any details regarding their respective injuries.

"I'm very adamant about not speaking about it because of the competitive edge," Mularkey said. "I'm not talking about minimal things, but every team is looking for an edge to winning a game. Anything I know about a guy, anything I know is hurting on him, any comment he makes will play into how they attack a team or a position."

The coach revealed the news to the team during a meeting on Thursday.

"I didn't want to be a coach to fine people and I certainly didn't want to be a head coach to fine people," Mularkey added. "Unfortunately, there's some people that don't understand how to do things the right way. ... I had it up there more than once. Coordinators were told prior to that meeting every two weeks, two to three weeks I want you to stand in front of that room and tell them we're not going to talk about injuries."

Greg Aiello, an NFL spokesman, told the Florida Times-Union, that the league is looking into whether it violates the CBA.

Though, Rashean Mathis said the players were OK with the decision from Mularkey."We're supporting the coach and that's what it's all about," Mathis said. "It's nothing but positive things coming from him. We like his attitude, we like how he's being honest with us. I think that's the big picture. We have his back because we know he has ours at the end of the road.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Clint Session Could Face Career Decision

Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Clint Session suffered two concussions during the 2011 NFL season. Seven months later, he is still suffering from concussion like symptoms. Could Session be forced to retire?

Jaguars Sign Gijon Robinson, Release Naufahu Tahi

The Jacksonville Jaguars made a couple of minor moves at the conclusion of camp activity on Friday, signing tight end Gijon Robinson and releasing fullback Naufauh Tahi.

Robinson was a member of the Indianapolis Colts from 2008-2010, where he played in 39 games while making 26 starts. In his career, he has made 31 receptions for 240 yards and one touchdown. He received a tryout with the Detroit Lions prior to the 2011 season, but was released shortly before the season.

Tahi told head coach Mike Mularkey that he was leaving camp to attend to a "personal family issue" and the team issued his release shortly after. Tahi played for the Minnesota Vikings from 2006-2010, and was a long shot to make the Jags this year.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jaguars Training Camp: Mike Mularkey Fines For Revealing Injuries O.K. By Players

While the news earlier Friday of Mike Mularkey announcing that he will begin to fine players $10,000 for revealing injury information to the media was viewed as potentially illegal according to NFL rules, a new report from Tania Ganguli of the Florida Times-Union states that the players are fine with Mularkey's proposal.

Ganguli spoke with Jaguars player rep Rashean Mathis said the players had no problems with the new rule, and that the penalty agreed on is $9,915 per offense.

There were rumors that the NFLPA would take action against Mularkey's rule, but if the players agreed to it, there is not much they could do in this situation to stop it.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Still not enough football news for you? Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 NFL teams throughout training camp and the regular season.

Jaguars Training Camp 2012: Naufahu Tahi Leaves Team For Personal, Family Reasons, According To Report

While the main story out of the beginning of the Jacksonville Jaguars 2012 Training Camp, has been Maurice Jones-Drew, another nugget has surfaced about a lower profile player leaving camp.

According to John Oesher of Jaguars.com, fullback Naufahu Tahi is leaving the team for "personal, family reasons." Oesher was told the news by head coach Mike Mularkey who did not hint at how long Tahi will be gone from the team.

Tahi, 30, is a five year veteran of the NFL after he was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Minnesota Vikings in 2006.

In other training camp news, there are plenty of position battles that Jags fans will want to keep an eye on during the preseason. Alfie Crow of Big Cat Country has a video report of who he thinks will be starting for the team come Week 1.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 teams.

Jaguars Training Camp: Players Will Be Fined $10,000 For Talking To Media About Injuries

Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Mike Mularkey is putting a clamp down when it comes to talking about injuries to the media. According to Tania Ganguli of the Florida Times-Union, Mularkey had a meeting with the team last night. In that meeting, Mularkey put the rule down that if they speak to the media regarding injuries, they will be fined $10,000.

Anything I know about a guy, anything I know is hurting on him, any comment he makes will play into how they attack a team or a position. I just don't think it's anybody else's business. ... If I feel like it's going to jeopardize us or compromise us, I will not talk about specific injuries.

Obviously a reason that Mularkey would want to limit the amount of injury discussion in the media could potentially help his team out. The Jaguars are looking for any kind of competitive advantage when it comes to the AFC and if this is one way to help them get that advantage, then so be it.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 teams.

Jaguars Training Camp 2012: Six Players Start Camp On PUP List

New Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Mike Mularkey announced on Friday that six players will start training camp on the physically unable to perform list. Terrance Knighton and John Chick are both unsurprisingly on the list, but Zach Miller, Cameron Bradfield, Uche Nwaneri and Clint Session are a little more surprising designations to the list.

During training camp and preseason players can be assigned to and removed from the list at any time, but if a player remains on the list at the beginning of the regular season they must stay on the list until after six weeks of regular season play.

Knighton is still waiting to be cleared to practice after suffering an eye injury during the offseason and Chick is still recovering from knee surgery after tearing his patella tendon. Mularkey told the media that only Chick is expected to stay on the list long.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 teams.

Jaguars Training Camp 2012: Clint Session Still Having Concussion Symptoms

After suffering his second concussion of the season, linebacker Clint Session missed the final seven games of the 2011 NFL season. It's been seven months and Session is apparently still having problems with concussions as Mike Mularkey told media today that he has been designated to the physically unable to perform list.

Despite reports in early April that Session finally shook the concussion symptoms that claimed the latter half of his 2011 season, Mularkey told the media that the problems have not yet subsided.

"It's definitely a concern," Mularkey told Mark Long of the Associated Press.

While Mularkey said that he expects all the players on the PUP list except John Chick to be back on the field soon, the fact that Session has spent seven months trying to recover from his concussion issues doesn't bode well for his immediate future or the rest of his football career.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 teams.

Maurice Jones-Drew Holdout: Jaguars RB Prepared To Skip Training Camp, According To Report

Jacksonville Jaguars fans thought that running back Maurice Jones-Drew would show up when training camp would begin. Not so, the running back is still holding out, looking for a new contract. Whats even more disheartening, is that he could be willing to skip all of training camp to get a new deal, according to NFL writer Steve Wyche.

The running back didn't report to the team Thursday and could face $30,000 in daily fines during his holdout. Jones-Drew is willing to sacrifice the fines in order to get a new contract, a source said. Jaguars owner Shad Khan said Wednesday the team doesn't plan to re-do the final two years and $9.4 million on Jones-Drew's contract, drawing an opposing line in the sand.

Jones-Drew has two years left on his contract. He led the NFL in rushing last year with 1,606 yards and eight touchdowns. Since the team won only five games last season, one of the arguments being floated by the Jaguars is that they could possibly be fine without him signed for the long haul. Jones-Drew is training on his own, so he should be ready to go when this is resolved.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 teams.

Terrance Knighton Not Yet Medically Cleared, Shows Up In Shape

Jacksonville Jaguars defensive tackle Terrance Knighton is making a conscious effort to try and drop some weight to be cleared to participate. However, the defensive tackle appeared at Jaguars training camp on Thursday much lighter than he usually has been and appears to be in shape. Florida Times-Union writer Tania Ganguli tweeted that he looks to be well under his listed weight.

Terrance Knighton here looking svelte. Under 330 pounds right now. Impressive. #Jaguars

— Tania Ganguli (@taniaganguli) July 26, 2012

Knighton losing that much weight can only be a good thing for the Jaguars defense. Less weight on his body will mean that he should have more longevity as an impact player in the league. His body will not be as prone to injuries hopefully, so that the Jaguars can get a good run out of him as a run stuffing player in the middle of the defensive line.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 teams.

Maurice Jones-Drew Holdout: What's The End Game?

Jacksonville Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew has decided to not report for training camp, still looking for a new contract. What is his end game?

Maurice Jones-Drew Holdout: Running Back 'Angry' With Jaguars, According To Report

With a report from ESPN's Adam Schefter that Maurice Jones-Drew would not report on time to training camp with the Jaguars that was later corroborated by other reporters, Jones-Drew's holdout will officially cut into training camp starting on Thursday.

How long it will last is an answer that remains to be seen, but according to Mike Freeman of CBS Sports, it could certainly be a lengthy holdout as he says that the three-time All-Pro is "angry" with the Jaguars. While Jones-Drew's desire for a new contract is likely justified with just two years left on the contract he signed in 2009, to be "angry" would imply that he is much more underpaid than he currently is.

With Gene Smith and Shad Khan both saying that the running back needs to honor his current contract, it is highly unlikely that Jones-Drew even gets the opportunity to talk about a new contract with the team this offseason, let alone receive one.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 teams.

Maurice Jones-Drew Hold Out: Jaguars Running Back Will Not Report To Camp On Time, According To Report

In news that should be shocking to absolutely no one, running back Maurice Jones-Drew will not be reporting for training camp with the Jacksonville Jaguars on time. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the three-time All-Pro will do what many thought he would and extend his hold out from team activities into training camp.

Jones-Drew also missed all prior offseason activity due to displeasure with his current contract status with the team.

The three-time Pro Bowler signed a five-year contract worth just under $31 million, but after receiving over $21 million of the deal in the first three seasons of the deal, Jones-Drew is set to receive less than $9.5 million in the final two seasons before expiring after the 2013 season.

Jaguars general manager Gene Smith and owner Shahid Khan have made it clear in prior media addresses that their expectation is for Jones-Drew to honor the final two years on his contract and will not re-negotiate a new deal.

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 teams.

2012 Jacksonville Jaguars Training Camp Preview

With the 2012 Jacksonville Jaguars training camp opening take a look at the top story lines for the Jaguars and the camp battles worth looking at.

Maurice Jones-Drew Contract: No Deal In Place For Jaguars Running Back

Even though running back Maurice Jones-Drew intends to holdout of Jacksonville Jaguars training camp which begins on Thursday, team management has no plans to give him a new contract, owner Shad Khan told the Florida Times-Union on Wednesday.

Jones-Drew is not expected to report.

"There'’s no decision here,''’’ Khan told the Times-Union. “"It'’s his choice. There'’s been very little for us to do rather than wait on whatever he might chose to do,’>

The former UCLA standout has two years left on the five-year, $31 million contract he signed in 2008. The deal, though, is frontloaded and he received $21 million over the first three years with $9.4 million due over the next two. As a result, he has been looking for a restructured deal and has missed all of the team's offseason activities as a result.

Jacksonville has not budged, though.

"“There'’s more than 50 players under contract," Kahn added. "There are other people under contract in management, coaches. Does that mean if you do it for one, you do it for everybody? Where do you draw the line?"

For more on the Jacksonville Jaguars visit SB Nation's Jaguars blog Big Cat Country. Check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more on all 32 teams.

Jacksonville Jaguars 2012 Training Camp Schedule

The Jacksonville Jaguars report to training camp on Thursday. What will be the days that fans will be able to go and see how this team will do this season?