The Jacksonville Jaguars started their offseason program earlier this week, but did so without tight end Evan Engram.
In February, the Jaguars used the franchise tag to keep Engram. While the team is optimistic that a multi-year deal will get done with the tight end before the July 17 deadline for franchised players, Engram hasn’t signed the tag and he’s steering clear of TIAA Bank Field for now.
Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence isn’t too worried about Engram’s absence, though.
“We threw a few weeks ago,” Lawrence told reporters earlier this week. “He looks great, he’s in great shape. Obviously, it’s good to see him. We have a really good relationship, and I’ve been staying in touch with him. He’s doing great. I know he’s taking care of business on his end, and he’s doing a great job, and you can tell he’s going to be ready when the time comes.
“With a guy like that, you guys have all seen it, his work ethic, and our coaches and staff feel the same way. You don’t worry about him. He’s taking care of business, and he’s going to be ready. It’s not something you worry about, obviously, it’s a guy you want around just because he’s great for the locker room, and he’s a great player. We know that’s going to come.”
Engram spent the first five seasons of his NFL career with the New York Giants before signing a one-year deal with the Jaguars last year. In his first season in Jacksonville, Engram broke franchise records for a touchdown and set personal bests with 73 receptions for 766 yards.
