Jaguars Sign First-Round Pick DE Dante Fowler, Give Him Max Deal

The Jacksonville Jaguars have reached an agreement with No. 3 overall pick DE Dante Fowler on a four-year contract Tuesday, according to Mike Garafolo.

Garafolo mentions that the Jaguars negotiated in good faith and gave him the max deal for his draft position, even after he sustained a torn ACL just a few minutes into his first NFL practice.

Fowler’s contract is a four-year deal worth $23.5 million fully guaranteed and includes a $15.3 million signing bonus. Garafolo adds that the Jaguars did not add any offset language to the guaranteed money included in his contract.

Fowler’s agent Ben Dogra released a statement regarding the Jaguars extending Fowler a max deal:

“The Jaguars had discussions with me and my business partner Eugene (Parker) before the injury occurred and they never wavered in their commitment to Dante. They honored the contract and their promise and gave us a structure that’s the same as their franchise quarterback (Blake Bortles, the No. 3 overall pick last year).

“It’s a true testament to ownership, led by Shad Khan, the front office, led by (general manager) Dave Caldwell) and the coaching staff.

“They showed a full commitment to Dante. It’s refreshing and they deserve credit as one of the best organizations and places to play in the NFL.”

There was some concern that Fowler’s injury could impact contract negotiations with the Jaguars, specifically regarding offset language, but it appears as though this wasn’t a consideration from their end.

It’s worth mentioning that other players have come back during the season after tearing an ACL this early in the year like Chargers OLB Melvin Ingram. However, the Jaguars may very well elect to place him on season-ending injured reserve and give him the time he needs to get back to 100 full health.

During his three years at Florida, Fowler recorded 140 tackles, 14.5 sacks, five forced fumbles and two pass defenses.