Jacksonville made a surprise move on the eve of the new season by cutting quarterback David Garrard.
Quarterback sent packing five days before season opener
The Jacksonville Jaguars made a surprise move on the eve of the new season by cutting long-time starting quarterback David Garrard.
Garrard had three years remaining on the $60 million deal he signed in 2008 and his release will save the Jaguars $9m this season alone.
But the club insist Garrard's departure is a "pure football decision" with head coach Jack Del Rio explaining the 33-year-old had paid the price for a disappointing pre-season.
"He just couldn't get it going," said Del Rio, who is entering his ninth season in charge of Jacksonville and probably needs to reach the play-offs to keep his own job.
"I had met with him a couple of weeks ago and brought him in and said, 'Hey, listen, you're my guy. I need you to get it going.' He was given every opportunity. He was somewhat apologetic that he wasn't able to deliver."
Luke McCown, a career back-up who has started just seven games in as many NFL seasons, will be under centre against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday.
But McCown is likely just keeping the seat warm for Blaine Gabbert, who was selected in the first round of April's draft.
