Jacksonville Jaguars sign former Packer tight end Josiah Deguara in free agency

The Jacksonville Jaguars are reportedly signing former Green Bay Packers tight end Josiah Deguara to a new contract in free agency, according to NFL reporter Jordan Schultz. Deguara, a former third-round draft pick, spent the first four years of his career with the Packers, but now he’s headed to Jacksonville on a one-year deal.

After playing just two games as a rookie, Deguara played almost every game in the following three seasons for Green Bay. He accumulated 47 catches for 436 yards and two touchdowns. His most productive season came in 2021 when he had 25 catches, 245 yards and both of his touchdowns. His rookie season came to an abrupt end in Week 5 in 2020 due to a torn ACL.

Hailing from the University of Cincinnati, Deguara signed a four-year rookie deal for $4.45 million. At Cincinnati, he was a first-team All-AAC selection.

The Jaguars will be able to use Deguara as a receiving tight end and as a key piece on special teams. The team’s starting tight end, Evan Engram, has two more years left on his contract. He had 963 yards and four touchdown receptions last season.

More on the 2024 NFL offseason, free agency

The NFL 2024 calendar year begins at 4 p.m. ET on March 13. At that time, contracts running through 2023 officially run out, making those players free agents. Prior to the beginning of free agency, teams will have a chance to designate one franchise or transition tag player, starting on Feb. 20 at 4 p.m. ET and ending on March 5. Beginning March 11 through March 13 teams can enter into a legal negotiation with players who will become unrestricted free agents.

In addition to NFL free agency, the new year also marks the beginning of all trades being made official by the league office. April 19 marks the deadline to sign restricted free agents to offer sheets. On April 24, the deadline for teams to match restricted free agent offers sheets hits. Following the restricted free agent deadline follows the 2024 NFL Draft, which runs from April 25-27.