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Jaguars Release Gabe Davis After One Season; $5.7M Dead Cap Hit

2 days ago

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Executive Summary

  • The Jaguars released Gabe Davis after only one season, despite guaranteeing him $24 million in March 2024.
  • Davis's poor performance in 2024 included career-low stats with 20 receptions for 239 yards and two touchdowns in 10 games, along with a season-ending meniscus tear.
  • The Jaguars' decision was influenced by the emergence of younger receivers and a lack of chemistry between Davis and quarterback Trevor Lawrence.

Event Overview

The Jacksonville Jaguars released wide receiver Gabe Davis on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, after just one season with the team. Davis signed a three-year, $39 million contract with the Jaguars in March 2024, but his performance failed to meet expectations. The Jaguars will absorb a $5.7 million dead cap hit by designating Davis as a post-June-1 release. Davis previously played for the Buffalo Bills, where he was known for his big plays and touchdown catches.

Media Coverage Comparison

Source Key Angle / Focus Unique Details Mentioned Tone
ESPN Financial implications of Davis's release for the Jaguars The Jaguars will absorb a $5.7 million dead cap hit as a post-June-1 release. Mentions the impact of injuries to Christian Kirk and Evan Engram on the team. Informative
syracuse.com Davis's history with the Buffalo Bills and his potential future Highlights his nickname 'Big Play Gabe' and his past performance with the Bills. Mentions support from former teammate Mitch Morse and potential return to Buffalo. Analytical
Buffalo Rumblings Potential reunion between Davis and the Buffalo Bills Considers Davis' fit in the Bills' current roster and fan reaction to his possible return. Notes his disappointing stats and injury with the Jaguars. Speculative
NFL.com Transaction details and context within broader NFL news Confirms Davis' release as part of a league-wide roundup of transactions. Highlights his career-low numbers with the Jaguars. Neutral

Key Details & Data Points

  • What: The Jacksonville Jaguars released wide receiver Gabe Davis after one season, citing his poor performance and the emergence of younger players.
  • Who: Gabe Davis, Jacksonville Jaguars, Buffalo Bills, Trevor Lawrence, Brandon Beane, Mitch Morse.
  • When: Davis was released on May 7, 2025, 14 months after signing with the Jaguars in March 2024. He played 10 games in the 2024 season before suffering a season-ending injury.
  • Where: Jacksonville, Florida (Jaguars), Buffalo, New York (Bills).

Key Statistics:

  • Key statistic 1: $39 million (Total value of Davis's three-year contract with the Jaguars)
  • Key statistic 2: $5.7 million (Dead cap hit for the Jaguars due to Davis's release)
  • Key statistic 3: 20 receptions (Davis's career-low reception total in 2024)

Analysis & Context

The Jaguars' decision to release Gabe Davis after just one season is a significant move, reflecting their dissatisfaction with his performance and potential cost savings. Despite a lucrative contract, Davis failed to make a significant impact, recording career-low statistics and struggling to connect with quarterback Trevor Lawrence. The emergence of younger receivers and the financial implications of keeping Davis likely contributed to his release. This move opens up questions about Davis's future and whether he will return to Buffalo or find a new team.

Notable Quotes

Absolute tone setter in the locker room and on the field. PERFECT culture guy. Played hurt all last year, didn’t b---h about it once... having a tough time wrapping my head around this one.
— Mitch Morse, former teammate on the Bills and Jaguars (X (formerly Twitter))

Conclusion

Gabe Davis's release from the Jacksonville Jaguars marks a swift end to his tenure with the team after a disappointing season. The Jaguars' move signals a shift in their offensive strategy and a willingness to absorb a financial hit to move on from a player who did not meet expectations. Davis now enters free agency, with potential suitors including a possible return to the Buffalo Bills, where he previously experienced success.

Disclaimer: This article was generated by an AI system that synthesizes information from multiple news sources. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy and objectivity, reporting nuances, potential biases, or errors from original sources may be reflected. The information presented here is for informational purposes and should be verified with primary sources, especially for critical decisions.