Jaguars release Garrard, plan to start McCown

[September 07, 2011]  JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) -- The Jacksonville Jaguars have released veteran quarterback David Garrard, a stunning move that will save the franchise $9 million this season.

Whether it saves coach Jack Del Rio's job remains to be seen. Team owner Wayne Weaver has said Jacksonville needs to make the playoffs for Del Rio to stick around for a 10th season. Del Rio made it clear late last season that he had grown tired of Garrard's inconsistent ways.

Del Rio's quarterback swap is similar to what he did in 2007, when he released Byron Leftwich in favor of Garrard after the preseason. This time, though, Del Rio has been steadfast that Garrard was the starter.

Garrard missed the preseason opener because of a sore back, but started the final three games. He completed 50 percent of his passes for 216 yards, with no touchdowns and an interception.

Luke McCown is expected to start the opener against the Tennessee Titans.

[Associated Press; By MARK LONG]

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