Jared Odrick hits free agency after release from Jaguars

The Jacksonville Jaguars have released defensive end Jared Odrick two years into his five-year, $42.5 million contract, according to Odrick’s agent, David Canter.

Odrick, a first-round pick by the Dolphins in the 2010 draft, spent his first five seasons in Miami. He racked up 16.5 sacks over four seasons of consistent play.

He signed with Jacksonville as a free agent prior to the 2015 season. Odrick had a solid first season with the Jaguars, with 5.5 sacks, three pass deflections, and one forced fumble. In 2016, Odrick was placed on injured reserve with a shoulder injury and only played in six games. He finished with 12 tackles, one sack, and one forced fumble.

The Jaguars signed Odrick to play a specific role in Gus Bradley’s defense, but with Bradley gone and a shift in defensive schemes imminent, Odrick no longer fits.

Jacksonville was expected to release Odrick, and Odrick did not seem terribly bothered by the Jaguars’ decision to move on from him.

The veteran defensive end hits the market as an intriguing option for teams looking to bolster their pass rush, based on his 2015 performance. Odrick has the versatility to play inside or outside, which enhances his appeal. If he’s able to get and remain healthy, he could be a factor next season.

For teams like the Cleveland Browns, San Francisco 49ers, or Washington, all of which had difficulty getting pressure on opposing quarterbacks last season and have plenty of cap space to work with for 2017, bringing in a versatile veteran like Odrick would be a logical move.

Odrick was due a $2 million roster bonus next month, and $3.5 million of his salary would have become guaranteed in March, also. Releasing Odrick saves the Jaguars $8.5 million in cap space for the coming season.