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Jacksonville Jaguars play hardball with veteran tackle Branden Albert

DAVIE, FL - AUGUST 8: Branden Albert
DAVIE, FL - AUGUST 8: Branden Albert

The Jacksonville Jaguars have finally taken a stance on Branden Albert’s continued absence, saying he’s stuck with them, like it or not.

The Jacksonville Jaguars are playing nice. They’re also playing hardball. In response to the ongoing absence of veteran offensive tackle Branden Albert from offseason activities, the Jaguars came out and announced that Albert would not be forcing anyone’s hand for a new deal. They also however said they look forward to seeing him soon, since they’re also refusing to let him go.

"“We have his rights, and we expect him to show up when he has to,” GM Dave Caldwell said. “This is all voluntary, so it’s his decision to not be here. He’s got that right to do that. As long as he comes in shape when it’s mandatory and comes in and does the things he’s supposed to do, we’ll welcome him with open arms.”"

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The Jaguars most certainly could use the veteran presence and experience of Albert at these early stages of Doug Marrone’s tenure as head coach. The Jags are a very young team, capable of turning the corner, with an exciting new asset in the backfield in Leonard Fournette. Unfortunately, Albert has yet to arrive after the Jags traded a seventh round pick to the Miami Dolphins for him earlier this offseason.

Albert said all the right things at first after the trade, but he’s failed to show up since offseason activities began. Currently these are all voluntary activities, but most players show up for the entire time, and any absence is usually a talking point for teams, especially unexplained absences like Albert’s.

The Jaguars helped themselves a bit in this regard in the recent draft with the selection of Cam Robinson from Alabama in the second round. Robinson could be a day one starter if Albert decides to retire or do something drastic. The Jaguars also have Jermey Parnell at right tackle for now.

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