The Jacksonville Jaguars today agreed to terms with RB Fred Taylor, the team's first choice from April's draft. Taylor, 22, was selected ninth overall and, once his contract is signed, will be the highest drafted player to sign to date. Length and terms of the contract are not disclosed.
"This is a good deal for the player, and it is a good deal for the team," said Michael Huyghue, Jaguars Senior Vice President of Football Operations. "It is always difficult to get top-ten contracts completed early in the process, but we put a premium on getting all of our players under contract and into training camp on time. It's good to get Fred under contract, and we are confident that our final negotiation (for Donovin Darius) will be completed swiftly."
Taylor, 6-0, 228, ranks fourth on the University of Florida's all-time rushing list with 3,075 yards. He ended his college career with a 43 carry, 234 yard performance vs. Penn State in the Citrus Bowl.
The Jaguars also today waived rookie free agent kicker Justin Skinner. Skinner, 22, was The Citadel's all-time career scoring leader among kickers. The Jaguars' roster count stands at 84, with 83 players under contract. S Donovin Darius, chosen 25th overall, is the only draft choice yet to be signed by the Jaguars.
On Monday, July 6 at 12:30 p.m., Taylor, his agent Tank Black, and Huyghue will be available in the Jaguars Family Waiting Room for interviews.
The first practice of training camp will be held Friday, July 24 at 3:20 p.m. and will be open to the public through Monday, August 17.
