Jaguars Release Gabe Davis, Absorb $20.3M Dead Cap Hit

The Jacksonville Jaguars have released wide receiver Gabe Davis just over a year after signing him to a three-year, $39 million contract, a move that surprised many, including former teammate Mitch Morse, who praised Davis as a strong locker room presence and culture setter. Davis struggled with injuries during his tenure, missing the last six games of the 2024 season due to a torn meniscus and posting career-low statistics with only 20 catches for 239 yards and two touchdowns in 10 games. The Jaguars will absorb a significant $20 million dead cap hit as a result of the release, reflecting their commitment to a roster overhaul and rebuild around young receivers like Brian Thomas Jr. and first-round draft pick Travis Hunter. The team has also made additional changes, trading away Christian Kirk, releasing Evan Engram and Josh Reynolds, and signing Dyami Brown. Davis, who previously had a productive four-year stint with the Buffalo Bills, is now a free agent seeking to revive his career elsewhere. His leadership and past playoff performances are expected to draw interest from teams looking to bolster their receiver corps.