Former Eagles "fan favorite" defensive end Jason Babin is back on the market. The 34-year-old pass rusher was cut by the Jaguars on Thursday. While Babin was not a lock to make the final roster, it is a bit strange that he was let go so early.He had been with the Jaguars since being released by the Eagles midway through the 2012 season and recently signed a new deal that included $500,000 in guaranteed money.
Babin made a career out of playing behind Wide 9 in Tennessee with Jim Washburn after serving as a well-traveled journeyman that had stops in Kansas City, Seattle, Houston and Philadelphia. He and Washburn reunited in Philadelphia in 2011 after Babin made the Pro Bowl with the Titans. He had an incredible 18 sacks in 2011, which earned him Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors.
In 2012, the story was very, very different. Babin formed a rough relationship with the media and fans after he failed to repeat his All-Pro success. He had 5.5 sacks and little ability to do anything else, so the Eagles dropped him in the middle of the season and Washburn soon followed suit. He was claimed off of waivers by Jacksonville, where he had 51 tackles, nine sacks and five force fumbles in 21 games with the Jaguars.
All teams need pass rushers, but a 34-year-old journeyman that has worn out his welcome in several cities and has no ability to stop the run, may have an issue finding work. Washburn is in Detroit, so perhaps that could be a nice reunion. Still, it is eye-opening that he would be cut this soon, despite the money he was paid.