The Jacksonville Jaguars have announced that the team is parting ways with general manager Gene Smith. The Jaguars will honor the remaining two years on Smith’s contract.
“I met with Gene Smith this morning to inform him of my decision to go in a new direction and thank him for his dedication to the Jaguars since the inception of the franchise,” owner Shahid Khan said. “I am personally appreciative for his efforts during my first season of ownership in the NFL. Gene is a good man with a long career ahead of him in football, and I know this season was as difficult for him as anyone with our organization. I sincerely wish Gene and his family the very best, today and always."
Khan's first year with the team has been a struggle, starting with star running back Maurice Jones-Drew's preseason holdout, and culminating with a 2-14 finish, and injuries to Jones-Drew and quarterback Blaine Gabbert.
Khan will immediately begin his search for a new general manager, but indicated there is no timetable on naming a replacement.
“Now it is time for the Jacksonville Jaguars to begin a new chapter. We’re not looking back. I’ve made it clear from Day One that we pledge nothing less than to deliver the first Super Bowl championship to Jacksonville. Our fans have been remarkably loyal over the years, and they were truly outstanding this past season. We simply must do better for our fans."
“Our organization’s business unit had an extremely impressive year and I anticipate even better days ahead in 2013 and beyond, but we all understand this is a football business above all else. With that, I’m determined to find the right man to lead our football operations, someone who shares my vision, understands the commitment we will demand, and is qualified and ready to seize this opportunity. That search begins today.”
By Staff of The Daily Sports Herald and news services
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