Jaguars And Guard Ezra Cleveland Agree To A 3-year, $28.5M Contract, AP Source Says

The Jacksonville Jaguars and guard Ezra Cleveland agreed Thursday to a three-year, $28.5 million contract that features $14.5 million assured, in line with an individual accustomed to negotiations.

The particular person spoke to The Associated Press on situation of anonymity as a result of neither aspect had introduced the deal publicly.

The transfer prevents Cleveland from hitting the free-agent market subsequent week and will solidify a place that was a revolving door in entrance of franchise quarterback Trevor Lawrence final season.

The Jaguars gave Minnesota a sixth-round draft decide in trade for Cleveland on the commerce deadline in October. He began 5 of Jacksonville’s closing 9 video games, 4 at left guard and one at left deal with.

General supervisor Trent Baalke has mentioned repeatedly he believes Cleveland can improve a place at which Jacksonville used 4 totally different starters in 2023, together with Ben Bartch, Tyler Shatley and Walker Little.

Cleveland began 49 video games over 4 seasons with the Vikings earlier than getting traded within the closing yr of his rookie deal.

Getting Cleveland underneath contract means the Jags ought to return all 5 starters, together with left deal with Cam Robinson, middle Luke Fortner, proper guard Brandon Scherff and proper deal with Anton Harrison. Jacksonville is predicted so as to add a veteran middle to compete with Fortner.

The Jaguars gave up 41 sacks in 2023 and noticed Lawrence have to depart 4 video games with numerous accidents.

Jacksonville additionally agreed to phrases with backup security and particular groups standout Daniel Thomas. A fifth-round draft decide from Auburn in 2020, Thomas has performed in 56 video games over 4 years with the Jaguars.

___

AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl

(This story has not been edited by News18 employees and is printed from a syndicated information company feed – Associated Press)