On a day marked by significant roster changes for the Jacksonville Jaguars, the team made headlines by releasing two-time Pro Bowl tight end Evan Engram. This move was part of a broader overhaul under the new coaching regime, led by head coach Liam Coen. However, amidst these developments, a cryptic text message from Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell has sparked intrigue among NFL fans.
The Jaguars’ decision to release Evan Engram was not entirely unexpected. Engram, who had been with the team since 2022, was set to have the highest salary cap figure on the roster for 2025, at $19.75 million12. His release saves the Jaguars approximately $6 million in cap space but incurs a significant dead money charge of $13.5 million35.
Engram’s time in Jacksonville was marked by both highs and lows. In 2023, he achieved a franchise record for tight ends with 114 receptions and 963 yards, earning him a Pro Bowl selection23. However, injuries limited his performance in the 2024 season, where he managed only 47 catches across nine games13.
While the Jaguars were finalizing their decision on Engram, Dan Campbell, the head coach of the Detroit Lions, sent a cryptic text message that has left many wondering about its implications. Although the content of the message remains undisclosed, it has fueled speculation about potential future moves in the NFL.
Campbell’s message could be interpreted in several ways. It might be related to the Lions’ interest in acquiring talent released by other teams, or it could be a general commentary on the fluid nature of NFL rosters during the offseason. Without more context, the meaning behind Campbell’s message remains a mystery.
The Jaguars’ roster purge, including the release of Engram, Christian Kirk, Devin Duvernay, and Ronald Darby, signals a significant shift in their strategy under the new regime25. This overhaul is part of a broader trend in the NFL, where teams are aggressively managing their rosters to comply with salary cap constraints and align with their strategic visions.
As teams navigate the complexities of free agency and the draft, messages like Campbell’s can add an extra layer of intrigue to the process. Whether his message was a hint at future transactions or simply a philosophical musing, it underscores the dynamic nature of the NFL offseason.
Conclusion
The release of Evan Engram by the Jaguars marks a new chapter for both the team and the player. As Engram explores new opportunities, including a reported visit to the Denver Broncos7, the Jaguars continue their rebuild. Meanwhile, Dan Campbell’s cryptic message serves as a reminder that even in the midst of significant roster changes, there are always more stories unfolding behind the scenes in the NFL.
