Latest On Jaguars DE Yannick Ngakoue

Tom Pelissero of NFL Media reports that there are no signs that any trade involving Jaguars franchise DE Yannick Ngakoue is imminent at this time.

A report from earlier in the day implied that Jacksonville has a potential deal that’s close with a second-round pick on the table.

However, Pelissero says that based on the conversations he’s had with teams that have spoken to the Jaguars, it would be “shocking” if they were willing to trade Ngakoue for only a second-round pick. Instead, Pelissero mentions that it would likely take at least a second-round pick and more to get a deal done.

As for the relationship between Ngakoue and the Jaguars, Pelissero does say that it appears to have improved since he changed agents in recent weeks. Although, it sounds like he would still prefer to be traded.

On Thursday, Ian Rapoport says that while a trade is possible, nothing is considered imminent at this time and the Jets are not involved. 

“I’m not saying it couldn’t happen, but as of now, no trade is imminent or close,” Rapoport said. “And several of the teams that are reported to be involved, including the Jets, are not actually involved. There could be a market, I know the Jaguars have had certainly some interest in trading Yannick Ngakoue, it’s something they would absolutely consider for the right price. You look at this guy, he’s young, he’s a pass rusher, premier position, he makes a lot of money, which makes it hard for a lot of teams to take on in a pandemic but the price is going to be high. You’re looking at probably a second-round pick or better.”

Ngakoue has yet to sign his franchise tender, which gives him some leverage in any potential trade since he would need to sign it before he could be moved.

It remains to be seen whether he’s willing to continue to hold out into the regular season.

Former NFL GM Michael Lombardi reported earlier in the day that the Jaguars are “extremely close” to trading Ngakoue.

Lombardi added that a deal could be in place for Ngakoue either today or tomorrow, as they have a “firm offer” in place. He then followed that up by tweeting the Jets are “deeply involved” in trade talks for Ngakoue. He isn’t sure if they’ll be able to get a deal done, but they’re apparently in the mix. 

Ngakoue has made it clear for months now that he wants to move on and play for another team. However, had been very little reported progress in recent months.

Ngakoue has been flexible with his contract demands and is reportedly willing to play out the 2020 season on the franchise tag. The franchise tag for Ngakoue will be $17.78 million fully guaranteed. 

However, he has been as resolute in his desire for a trade as Jacksonville has been resolute in turning down offers to this point. 

If Ngakoue continues his holdout into the regular season, he would not start losing money until he starts missing games. 

Ngakoue, 25, is a former third-round pick of the Jaguars back in 2016. He played out the final year of his four-year, $3.48 million contract and made a base salary of $834,269 for the 2019 season.

In 2019, Ngakoue appeared in 15 games for the Jaguars and recorded 41 tackles, eight sacks, an interception, a defensive touchdown, four forced fumbles, a recovery and six passes defended. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 36 edge rusher out of 107 qualifying players.

We’ll have more regarding Ngakoue as the news is available.