The Evan Engram contract has become a big topic for NFL fans especially those watching the Jacksonville Jaguars closely Known for his speed hands and big-play ability Engram has shown he’s one of the most dangerous tight ends in the league So when the Jaguars gave him a big new contract it raised some eyebrows across the NFL
Let’s break down what Engram’s contract looks like why the team made this move and what it means for their future
Who Is Evan Engram
Before getting into the numbers here’s a quick background Evan Engram was drafted by the New York Giants in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft out of Ole Miss He quickly gained attention for his athleticism and ability to stretch the field from the tight end position
After several up-and-down years in New York Engram signed a one-year deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2022 He had a breakout season there becoming one of quarterback Trevor Lawrence’s favorite targets That success earned him a long-term deal
Evan Engram Contract Breakdown
In July 2023 the Jaguars and Engram agreed to a three-year contract worth $41.25 million The deal includes $24 million guaranteed which shows the team’s confidence in his role in the offense
Contract Highlights
- Total Value: $41.25 million
- Guaranteed Money: $24 million
- Signing Bonus: $11 million
- Average Salary: $13.75 million per year
- Contract Length: 3 years
- Free Agency: Eligible in 2026
This deal puts Engram among the top-paid tight ends in the league It shows how much the Jaguars value his unique skills
Why the Jaguars Paid Up
The Evan Engram contract was about more than just stats It was about fit chemistry and leadership
Key Reasons:
- Reliable Target: In 2022 Engram had 73 catches for 766 yards and 4 touchdowns He was one of the top receiving tight ends in the league
- Chemistry with Trevor Lawrence: Engram became a trusted option for the young quarterback especially on third downs and in the red zone
- Scheme Fit: Doug Pederson’s offense relies heavily on tight ends and Engram fits the system perfectly
- Locker Room Leader: Coaches have praised Engram for his work ethic and positive attitude
How the Contract Affects the Jaguars’ Salary Cap
Every big contract comes with salary cap consequences For the Jaguars Engram’s deal is structured to be team-friendly early on The signing bonus helps spread out the cap hit and gives the team flexibility to build around Trevor Lawrence
In 2023 Engram’s cap hit was around $4 million That number will rise in the final two years of the deal but the Jaguars expect the salary cap to increase as well
How Engram’s Deal Compares to Other Tight Ends
When comparing the Evan Engram contract to other top tight ends in the NFL he lands in the upper tier but not quite at the very top
Top Tight End Contracts:
- Travis Kelce (Chiefs): $14.3 million per year
- George Kittle (49ers): $15 million per year
- Mark Andrews (Ravens): $14 million per year
- Dallas Goedert (Eagles): $14.25 million per year
- Evan Engram (Jaguars): $13.75 million per year
Engram’s deal reflects his talent while still giving the team a bit of breathing room compared to the top earners
What Fans and Analysts Are Saying
Many fans were happy to see the Jaguars reward Engram especially after years of tight end struggles in Jacksonville NFL analysts called the deal fair and well-timed Some felt it was a slight overpay while others believe it will look like a bargain in a year or two
ESPN’s Field Yates said “Engram was a huge part of Lawrence’s jump in 2022 and locking him in was a smart move”
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport tweeted “Jaguars and Engram get it done Smart money on a rising team”
What This Means for the Jaguars’ Offense
With Engram locked in the Jaguars offense becomes more dangerous in multiple ways
- More flexibility in formations and matchups
- Red zone weapon that defenses must account for
- Reliable third-down option for Trevor Lawrence
- Helps open up space for other weapons like Christian Kirk Calvin Ridley and Travis Etienne
Future Outlook
The Evan Engram contract sets the tone for the kind of roster the Jaguars are building It’s not just about star power—it’s about balance and trust Engram earned this deal through hard work and performance and now he’s a core piece of one of the NFL’s most exciting young teams
If Engram continues to perform at a high level the contract could look like a bargain by the end of 2025 Plus with the salary cap expected to rise the Jaguars will be in a strong position to keep building around their young quarterback
Final Thoughts
The Evan Engram contract is more than just dollars and years—it’s a signal that the Jaguars believe in what they’re building Engram has gone from a high-potential draft pick to a key veteran leader and this deal shows the franchise is committed to keeping him in teal and black for the long haul
For fans in Jacksonville this is a win For the front office it’s a calculated investment in chemistry and consistency As the Jaguars push toward becoming a true contender keeping trusted weapons like Engram is a big part of the plan
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