The Jaguars are placing rookie wide receiver Dede Westbrook on injured reserve and releasing offensive lineman Earl Watford, according to Mike Kaye of First Coast News (Twitter link).
Westbrook, the Jaguars’ fourth-round pick in this year’s draft, had moved ahead of veteran Allen Hurns on the club’s depth chart, and had been set to open the season as Jacksonville’s slot receiver behind starters Allen Robinson and Marqise Lee. However, a “core” injury has now landed Westbrook on injured reserve, although he could return to action later this season. If the Jaguars opt to designate him as a return player, Westbrook could begin practicing in six weeks and play in eight.
Watford, meanwhile, signed a two-year, $5MM deal with the Jaguars this spring that contained $1MM in guarantees. He’d been expected to serve as depth along the offensive line, and while he’s a free agent for now, it’s entirely possible he could be re-signed after Week 1. That would enable Jacksonville to be free from guaranteeing Watford’s 2017 base salary.