It’s rare to see such a marquee free-agent signing this late in the offseason, but leave it to the Jacksonville Jaguars to defy the odds.
The Jaguars signed Alex Mack, the most highly regarded center on the market, to a five-year deal worth up to $27 million, and because Mack was slapped with the transition tag, the Cleveland Browns have five days to match the offer.
Alex Mack’s 5-year deal with Jacksonville will be designed to make it as difficult as possible for the Browns to match, per sources.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 9, 2014
To recap: Alex Mack highly impressed with Jacksonville, wants to play there, will sign 5-year offer sheet by end of week, per ESPN sources.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 9, 2014
According to Pro Football Talk, Jacksonville views its chances to actually getting Mack at 50-50. Cleveland has more than enough cap space — more than $30.5 million — if it wants to retain their Pro Bowl center. However, it will come at a steep price. The team also must consider giving contract extensions to Josh Gordon, Joe Haden, and Jordan Cameron in the near future. Pro Football Talk expects the Browns to match the offer.
Chris Johnson remains unsigned, and according to Pro Football Talk, the veteran running back refuses to work out for interested clubs. Johnson believes the back of his player card should be enough for teams to consider, and doesn’t want to risk injury in workouts.
Former Baltimore Ravens tight end Ed Dickson visited with the Carolina Panthers Wednesday. Filling in for the injured Dennis Pitta last season, Dickson hauled in 25 passes. A signing with Carolina would likely just for extra depth behind entrenched starter Greg Olsen and backup Richie Brockel. It’s the first known free-agent visit for Dickson.
Flying out to Carolina to meet with the panthers
— Ed Dickson (@EdDickson84) April 9, 2014
Former Philadelphia Eagles safety Kurt Coleman visited with the Minnesota Vikings Wednesday night, according to ESPN. The Tennessee Titans worked out outside linebacker O’Brien Schofield, who previously failed a physical when the New York Giants attempted to sign him. According to ESPN, Schofield passed his physical with Tennessee. He previously played under Titans coach Ken Whisenhunt with the Arizona Cardinals.
