Holt Signs with Jags

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Jaguars sign veteran WR Holt to three-year deal
Posted: News | Steve Wyche | Tags: Jacksonville Jaguars, Torry Holt

The Jacksonville Jaguars made headway toward filling their void at wide receiver on Monday by signing veteran free-agent Torry Holt to a three-year deal worth roughly $20 million, according to Holt’s agent.

Holt, 32, was released by the St. Louis Rams — the only team he’s played for — in March in a cost cutting move that accompanied a shift toward younger players. Holt was also courted by Tennessee and drew interest elsewhere, but he opted for Jacksonville, which could be beneficial to both parties.

Holt would maintain his status as a featured receiver. He also could provide the Jaguars a reliable wideout, which they failed to find, despite repeated attempts in free agency and the draft.

The Jaguars recently waived former first-round draft pick Matt Jones and former free-agent acquisition Jerry Porter after both receivers fell short of expectations either off the field (Jones) or on it (Porter).

Holt, meanwhile, is hoping to regain traction after a down year with St. Louis. He is still viewed as a capable player, with his reduced production last season due in part to an overall breakdown with the Rams.

Holt’s acquisition could signal that Jacksonville, which holds the eighth pick in the draft, might not target a receiver. Then again, the Jags also could draft a young accompaniment to Holt who could develop into the No. 1 option in a year or two when Holt will be nearing 34.

Other than receiver, Jacksonville could look at a quarterback or just about any spot on defense.