In need of funds to retain two key pending free agents, the Jaguars are set to move on from Darious Williams. Jacksonville plans to release the veteran cornerback, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports. 
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Williams has indeed been let go, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler notes. He adds that teams have already begun showing interest, something which comes as little surprise given his level of play last season. The 30-year-old was set to count $12MM against the cap in 2024, but this move will yield major financial savings. Jacksonville will free up $11.5MM via his release.
A former Ravens UDFA, Williams established himself as a starter during his tenure with the Rams. That span – from 2018-21 – helped his free agent value and landed him a three-year Jags pact. That agreement included $18MM in guaranteed money, but only $500K of that total remained for 2024. Now, Williams will be on the move once again while Jacksonville will have extra cap room to keep edge rusher Josh Allen and wideout Calvin Ridley.
The team has made it clear the former will not reach the open market, meaning a franchise tag will be used later today if necessary. The latter, by contrast, is in the Jags’ plans for 2024 and beyond, but allowing him to test free agency will lower the trade compensation sent to the Falcons in the event a re-up emerges. Jacksonville will have roughly $45MM in cap space when taking the Williams release into account.
The Alabama-Birmingham product posted four interceptions, 19 pass deflections and a pair of forced fumbles in 2023. That ball production will make him an enticing add for any number of teams, especially on a short-term deal. Williams remained strong in coverage last year, allowing a 55% completion percentage and an opposing passer rating of 63.9 as the nearest defender. While his age could turn away some suitors, he could be in line to land a new pact rather quickly.
Tyson Campbell has one year remaining on his rookie contract, and he will again be counted on as a full-time starter next season. Veterans Tre Herndon and Tevaughn Campbell are pending free agents, however, so the Jaguars could see considerable turnover at the cornerback position. The team recently took a flier on Amani Oruwariye via a futures deal, but further investment will be needed to replace Williams’ production.
That might be a mistake. Williams the last 2 years has only given up 3 TDs and a completion percentage of 50% and 55% on balls thrown his way. The savings are solid but that could be a costly move.