Reports: Jaguars to release CB Darious Williams

Field Level Media|published: 03/05/2024, 12:16pm EST

Dec 10, 2023; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Darious Williams (31) catches the ball during warm ups before the game against the Cleveland Browns at Cleveland Browns Stadium. credits: Scott Galvin-USA TODAY Sports

Jaguars cornerback Darious Williams will be released in a surprise move after a productive season that included four interceptions and 19 passes defensed.

According to multiple reports Tuesday, Williams is being cut to help Jacksonville retain other free agents.

Williams, who turns 31 this month, was set to make $9 million in 2024. Cutting him gives Jacksonville another $11.5 million in salary cap space, which is needed to retain pass rusher Josh Allen.

Jacksonville signed Williams to a three-year, $30 million contract in March 2022. He had 53 tackles in 17 starts last season and is already projected as a potential target of the Detroit Lions and Baltimore Ravens, who signed Williams as an undrafted free agent in 2018.

Allen is the top free agent priority of the Jaguars after the 26-year-old recorded 17.5 sacks in 2023.

—Field Level Media