Red Bryant Signs With Jacksonville
By Ben Nielsen
Jan 30, 2014; Jersey City, NJ, USA; Seattle Seahawks defensive end Red Bryant (79) at a press conference at The Westin in advance of Super Bowl XLVIII. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Red Bryant, who was speculated to be a target of the Chiefs to replace Tyson Jackson, has signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars to a four-year deal. Because Bryant was cut by the Seahawks, he is allowed to sign a contract before Tuesday’s free agency opening.
For Red Bryant and the #Jaguars, it’s a 4-year deal worth $17 million. Should fit right in to Gus Bradley’s defense
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 8, 2014
A 2008 fourth round draft pick by the Seattle Seahawks, Bryant was a force of the defensive line even though he did not rack up a lot of stats. Though he did grade well against the run according to Pro Football Focus, his +10.6 grade against the run was the 11th best for any 4-3 defensive end.
Bryant would have been a good fit for what the Chiefs try to do on the defensive line when it comes to stopping the run and collapsing the pocket in the passing game. There has been some rumors the Chiefs are trying to retain Jackson though nothing new has come on that front. There are not a lot more affordable options to play defensive end who would play at Bryant’s level in free agency.