Branden Albert: Contract Holdout with Jacksonville Jaguars
By Brady Lunt
Newly acquired tackle Branden Albert has started the next step of his career with the Jacksonville Jaguars with a contract holdout.
Based on a recent report by NFL.com insider Ian Rapoport, the Jacksonville Jaguars’ newly acquired lineman has had a bit of a rocky start. While a contract holdout may have been expected, is it entirely reasonable or conceivable?
Sources: While #Jaguars coach Doug Marrone held his first team meeting, new LT Branden Albert was not present. Holding out for a new deal.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 17, 2017
Branden Albert was one of the better tackles in the league while with the Kansas City Chiefs, but his move to the Miami Dolphins seem to push him down the rankings. While injuries have been a bit of a concern, missing two games in 2015 and four games in 2016, it’s more Albert’s level of play that may not ultimately warrant a new deal.
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At 32, age will be a concern moving forward and is likely the motivation behind a new deal.
The Jaguars hold his rights through 2018 and hold the most leverage in any negotiations. Albert is owed $8,900,000 for the 2017 season and $9,600,000 for the 2018 season. However, they can choose to move on after next season and wouldn’t owe him any guaranteed money.
While Albert is certainly talented, it’s telling why the Dolphins were ready to move on.
We can understand Albert’s position on getting a new contract. At this stage of his career, he is likely looking at one more pay-day. However, he could be hurting his chances if he hangs tight until after 2018 when he’ll be 34 years old. But he was just moved to a new team and isn’t in the position to make demands.
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While there is a demand for a quality offensive lineman, especially considering the lack of depth in the 2017 NFL draft and the massive contracts handed out to mediocre players in free agency, Albert is in the twilight of his career.
Rather than starting off on the wrong foot, playing hard and demonstrating leadership on a team that needs quality play up front could go a long way.