Why did Jaguars release TE Johnny Mundt? 3 takeaways from roster move

The Jacksonville Jaguars have reportedly released veteran tight end Johnny Mundt in the early going of NFL free agency.

Why was this move made, and what can we take away from it? Here are three things learned.

Jaguars create salary cap space

Mundt was just signed last offseason to a two-year deal worth $5.5 million . However, with the way the deal was structured, the Jaguars actually saved $2.73 million in cap space this offseason by moving on from him.

For a Jaguars team that doesn't have a lot of cap room currently, every bit helps in that regard.

Look for Jaguars to address tight end in the draft

With Brenton Strange leading the way, Morris re-signed, and Hunter Long is still under contract, tight end isn't a pressing need here in free agency. But we could see the Jaguars prioritize this position in the draft.

This year's tight end class tested quite well as a whole at the NFL combine and appears to have its share of talent to choose from. Following Mundt's, if the Jaguars do address this position in the draft, there is now a roster spot open for that player.

What factored into the Jaguars releasing Mundt?

The salary cap relief was certainly a part of the decision. But in addition to that, with Quintin Morris taking over the TE2 role last season, and Mundt being primarily a blocking tight end, which Morris is as well, having both players on the roster was a bit redundant. With Hunter Long, he offers more pass-catching upside compared to Mundt, adding a different element to the room.

This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: NFL free agency: Why did Jaguars release TE Johnny Mundt?