The Jacksonville Jaguars plan to release veteran wide receiver Christian Kirk, saving $10.732 million against the salary cap. Kirk, entering the final year of his four-year contract, had the highest cap number for 2025 at $24.4 million. He signed a $72 million deal in 2022 but struggled with injuries, missing 14 games over two seasons and totaling 84 catches for 1,166 yards and four touchdowns. This decision marks the first significant roster change by new general manager James Gladstone and head coach Liam Coen, leaving 2023 sixth-round pick Parker Washington as the team’s top slot receiver.
The Jacksonville Jaguars are set to part ways with veteran wide receiver Christian Kirk, according to a source who spoke to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
This decision will result in a salary cap savings of $10.732 million for the Jaguars. Kirk, who was entering the last year of his four-year deal, was due to have the highest cap hit on the team in 2025 at $24.4 million, alongside a $15.5 million salary.
This represents the first major roster adjustment made by the newly appointed general manager of the Jaguars, James Gladstone, who took office on February 21, along with new head coach Liam Coen.
Kirk signed a four-year, $72 million contract in 2022, where he achieved career highs with 84 receptions, 1,108 receiving yards, and eight touchdown catches that same season.
However, he struggled with injuries, missing 14 games over the last two seasons due to an abdominal issue and a fractured collarbone, accumulating 84 catches for 1,166 yards and four touchdowns in 20 games during that period.
With Kirk’s departure, the Jaguars enter the upcoming free agency period with 2023 sixth-round draft choice Parker Washington as their primary slot receiver. Washington has recorded 48 catches for 522 yards and five touchdowns across his two seasons.
Kirk, who is 28 years old, spent the first four years of his career with the Arizona Cardinals, where he made 236 receptions for 2,902 yards and 17 touchdowns.