The Jaguars gained another $3.5 million in salary cap room on Thursday when the team released three veterans: cornerbacks Dewayne Washington and Juran Bolden, and fullback Marc Edwards.
Washington started 16 games at right cornerback last season, after being signed in the spring to a two-year contract. In 2004, Washington had two interceptions, 18 passes-defensed, 86 tackles and one forced fumble. He was due a $200,000 roster bonus on March 21 and was to be a $2.14 million cap hit, but will now represent a $1.14 million savings on the Jaguars' '05 cap.
Bolden was signed in free agency last season but failed to become the starting cornerback the Jaguars projected. He excelled on special teams.
Due a $500,000 roster bonus on March 21, Bolden had four years remaining on his contract and was to be a $2.12 million cap hit this year. Instead, he will represent a $1.64 million savings.
Edwards was signed in 2003 free agency and was the Jaguars' starting fullback that year. He lost the starting job to rookie Greg Jones last season, when Edwards had no rushing attempts and only seven pass receptions for 41 yards. Edwards had five starts in 13 games played. In the final year of his contract, Edwards was to be a $1.14 million cap hit, but will now save the Jaguars $845,000.
The Jaguars now have about $13 million in salary cap room. About five million dollars of that will be needed to sign this year's rookie pool.
