Contract talks progressing for the Jaguars

You don't think Josh Scobee is important? The Jaguars beat the Baltimore Ravens on Monday Night Football (10/24/11) by a score of 12-7 thanks to four Josh Scobee field goals.

Tania Ganguli reported in two separate columns today that the Jaguars have begun meeting with Josh Scobee, although according to her the sides remain considerably apart, and Jeremy Mincey. Also in the second report, Ganguli says the Jaguars have meetings planned with Dwight Lowery and Rashean Mathis.

To say the least, it's encouraging to see the Jaguars trying to retain key players, especially on defense. All three of the defensive players listed above played well in 2011, and I view all of them as essential for the Jaguars to continue to progress as a team.

Equally as important is kicker Josh Scobee. In 2011, he made 92% of his field goal attempts, including 6 from 50 or more yards out. Scobee is the wildcard of the bunch. While the Jaguars are hoping to be able to hold on to Scobee by signing him to a long term deal, the option of using the franchise tag on him is certainly in play.

Applying the franchise tag to Scobee would cost the team about $2.7 to $2.9 million in guaranteed money, but I would be shocked if the Jaguars allowed Scobee to walk altogether. Nevertheless, there's work to be done on the re-signing front for Jacksonville. It seems they're finally getting on with it.