Mathis spent 10 years with the Jaguars but will not extend his stay.
The Jacksonville Jaguars will be rebuilding ahead of the new season, and the new era will not include cornerback Rashean Mathis as it was announced he will not be re-signed.
Mathis, 32, will enter the unrestricted free agency later this week after being told by general manager Dave Caldwell that the Jags will be moving forward without the veteran.
After the news broke, Mathis shared his reaction with the Florida Times-Union.
“Believe it or not, I’m at peace with everything,” he said.
“Playing in my hometown for 10 years and doing things the right way, I’m blessed to be able to say that. Could I ask for anything more than that being drafted out of Bethune-Cookman? Who would have drawn that up? No painter could have drawn that up,” he added.
Mathis spent 10 years in Jacksonville and earned a Pro Bowl invitation back in 2006. A second-round pick in 2003, he intercepted a franchise record 30 passes in 137 games but his recent hopes of extending his deal have been hit by injury.
He missed 11 games in the last two years due to knee injuries and was limited to just four starts last year as a result of on-going issues.
His career in Jacksonville began strongly between 2003-2006 as he never missed a game, however the steady decline began thereafter after his appearance numbers dwindled.
With age and fitness counting against him, the Jags have decided to end their partnership and will now look to target a cornerback to replace him.
Initial reports from the Times-Union suggests they will look to pen down Derek Cox before entering the market for more productive, younger pieces for their roster for the years to come.
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