In a surprising move, the Jacksonville Jaguars have released wide receiver Gabe Davis just over a year after signing him to a lucrative three-year, $39 million contract. The decision results in a significant $20.3 million dead cap hit for the team, underscoring the challenges of high-stakes roster management in the NFL.
A Promising Start Derailed by Injuries
Davis joined the Jaguars in March 2024 with high expectations following a productive four-year stint with the Buffalo Bills, where he amassed 163 receptions for 2,730 yards and 27 touchdowns. However, his tenure in Jacksonville was marred by injuries. In the 2024 season, Davis appeared in 10 games, starting nine, and recorded 20 receptions for 239 yards and two touchdowns before a torn meniscus ended his season in November.
Financial Implications of the Release
The Jaguars’ decision to release Davis comes with substantial financial consequences. By designating him as a post-June 1 cut, the team will absorb a $5.7 million dead cap hit in 2025, spreading the remaining amount over the following years. This move provides immediate cap relief of approximately $794,113, increasing their available cap space to around $28 million.
Strategic Shift Towards Youth
The release of Davis aligns with the Jaguars’ apparent strategy to invest in younger talent. Earlier in the offseason, the team traded fellow receiver Christian Kirk to the Houston Texans. In the 2025 NFL Draft, Jacksonville moved up to the No. 2 spot to select Travis Hunter, a versatile player from Colorado. The team is also building around second-year receiver Brian Thomas Jr., who set franchise rookie records in 2024 with 87 catches and 1,282 receiving yards.
Potential Landing Spots for Davis
Despite his recent setbacks, Davis’s track record suggests he could be a valuable addition to teams seeking depth at the wide receiver position. The New York Giants have emerged as a potential destination, given Davis’s previous success under head coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen during their time together in Buffalo. The Giants, who have been actively expanding their wide receiver depth this offseason, might consider Davis a fitting addition.
What’s Next
The Jaguars’ decision to release Gabe Davis reflects a broader organizational shift towards youth and long-term planning. While the financial ramifications are significant, the move underscores the team’s commitment to building a roster centered around emerging talent. For Davis, the release presents an opportunity to reset and potentially rejuvenate his career with a new team, leveraging his experience and previous successes to make a meaningful impact elsewhere in the league.