AP source: Jaguars decline 5th-year option on LT Joeckel

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) - According to a person familiar with the process, the Jacksonville Jaguars have declined to exercise a fifth-year option on former first-round draft pick Luke Joeckel.

The person spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because the team does not discuss contract details publicly.

Joeckel signed a four-year, fully guaranteed deal worth about $21 million after Jacksonville made him the second overall pick in 2013. The contract included a team option for the 2017 season, in which Joeckel would have made close to $12 million.

But the Jaguars passed, although they still could sign Joeckel to a long-term deal if he plays well this season.

Joeckel started 30 games the past two seasons at left tackle, but gave up five sacks in last season's finale at Houston. The Jags responded by signing Kelvin Beachum to a five-year, $45 million contract in free agency to compete with Joeckel. Beachum, who tore a ligament in his left knee in mid-October, is expected to be ready by training camp.

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