Loyalty Lost: Jaguars Jettison Fred Taylor

One athlete. One jersey. This combination is rare. Rookie. Initial contract. First jersey. Free Agent. Substantial contract. Second jersey. Veteran. Supplemental contract. Third jersey. These combinations are recognizable.

On Monday, the Jacksonville Jaguars released Fred Taylor. “We felt like the best thing for this football team is what it has to be about,” said Coach Jack Del Rio. “We feel good about the talented group of backs that we have ... and as you work through it, it's difficult to come up with a role that's going to be acceptable for everybody. It makes it awkward. It makes it difficult. We came to an agreement on what the best course of action was as a football team.”

During his career, Taylor amassed 2,428 carries, 11,271 yards, and 62 touchdowns. In 2008, he totaled only 143 carries, 556 yards, and one touchdown. “This was a difficult decision to come to, but a decision that had to be made despite how we all feel about Fred,” said General Manager Gene Smith. “We all respect and appreciate what Fred has done, and we feel that he can still play in the NFL, but in our current situation we believe this is the right move at this time.”

Despite Jacksonville’s decision, Del Rio remained complimentary. “He's got some talent,” said Del Rio. “I'm sure there is going to be some interest in him. I can't speak for other teams. I know Fred's done a great job taking care of his body and has been a complete stud in the time we've been here. I've said that several times. He's been a good teammate, he's been a guy that's all about winning and I've been impressed with the way that he's conducted himself since I've been here. You don't turn 33 without losing a step, but he's clearly worked hard. He's worked hard to allow himself to play at a high level. To hold off talented youngsters, you've got to do that, and he's worked his tail off to have that be the case.”

John Elway and Barry Sanders. Two athletes. Two jerseys. Keyshawn Johnson and Terrell Owens. Two athletes. Seven jerseys. Relocation cannot revoke renown. However, allegiance evokes admiration.