The Jaguars signed Gunter to a three-year, $18 million agreement with $11.15 million guaranteed in March. He was going to be the replacement for defensive end Calais Campbell, whom the Jaguars traded to Baltimore in March. Nose tackle Al Woods, whom the Jaguars signed in March to shore up a run defense that gave up 139 yards a video game last season, and protective end/linebacker Lerentee McCray decided out because of the coronavirus. Protective take on Tim Jernigan went to the Jaguars previously this week and was undergoing COVID-19 screening prior to he might take a physical and join the club.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla.– Jacksonville Jaguars defensive lineman Rodney Gunter is stepping away from football after being diagnosed with an extreme heart condition that could require surgical treatment.
The sixth-year player stated doctors told him he was at danger of rupturing or tearing his aorta if he continued to play football.
Gunter also stated he does not yet qualify for surgical treatment, and the best thing for him to do is wait.
” These last three weeks have actually been a difficult pill to swallow,” Gunter said. “Seeing my dreams disappear right in front of me has actually been exceptionally challenging. After seeing several heart professionals I was told if I continue to play ball with my condition, I might possibly burst or tear my aorta which is enlarged. This can cause unexpected death or an extreme stroke.
” There is a 50/50 possibility that surgery will fix my present health condition. At this time, I can not have the surgical treatment or play so I must wait.
” I value the Jaguars for giving me a chance, and Im happy for everybody who has believed in me along the way. Thank you!”
The Jaguars signed Gunter to a three-year, $18 million agreement with $11.15 million ensured in March. He was going to be the replacement for protective end Calais Campbell, whom the Jaguars traded to Baltimore in March. Gunter was going to line up at end on early downs and move within to rush the passer on 3rd downs.
Gunter is the fifth defensive lineman to either leave the team or get hurt in the past month. Nose take on Al Woods, whom the Jaguars signed in March to shore up a run defense that quit 139 yards a game last season, and protective end/linebacker Lerentee McCray pulled out since of the coronavirus. Tackles Dontavius Russell (hip) and Brian Price (knee) were put on hurt reserve.
Plus, the Jaguars still dont have protective end Yannick Ngakoue in camp. He has yet to sign the franchise tag tender ($ 17.8 million), though he just recently fired his representative and has actually had some discussions with basic manager Dave Caldwell.
In addition, first-round pick defensive end KLavon Chaisson has actually been handling a hamstring injury.
The Jaguars signed deals with Carl Davis, Josh Mauro and Caraun Reid in the past week. Defensive take on Tim Jernigan checked out the Jaguars earlier this week and was going through COVID-19 screening prior to he might take a physical and sign up with the club. Coach Doug Marrone stated earlier today “things are in the works.”
