The San Francisco 49ers released Arik Armstead after the two sides were unable to agree on a revised contract. Armstead felt disrespected by the team’s offer of $6 million for a one-year deal with incentives to go up to $8 million. He believed that the compensation offered did not reflect his value as a player, considering his contributions to the game, his team, the organization, and his community. Armstead signed a three-year, $43.5 million deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars after his release, stating that he puts a lot more effort into football than the majority of players do.
In the 2023 regular season, Armstead recorded five sacks and 27 combined tackles. He also had one sack and six combined tackles in San Francisco’s loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LVIII. Armstead’s best season for the 49ers was in 2019 when he had 10 sacks, 54 combined tackles, and two forced fumbles. He was initially selected by the 49ers with the No. 17 pick in the 2015 NFL Draft out of Oregon. Armstead now joins a Jacksonville Jaguars team that struggled in the 2023 season, losing five of their last six games and missing the playoffs after reaching the AFC divisional round in 2022.
The Jaguars defense allowed an average of 239.8 passing yards (26th in the NFL), 103.1 rushing yards (ninth), 342.8 total yards (22nd), and 21.8 points (17th) per game in 2023. Armstead is now part of a Jacksonville pass-rushing attack that includes two-time Pro Bowler Josh Allen and Travon Walker, who had a total of 27.5 sacks last season. Joining this defensive unit will provide Armstead with an opportunity to contribute to the team’s success and make an impact on the field.
Armstead’s commitment to his craft goes beyond the playing field, as he invests a significant amount of time watching film, taking care of his body, and continuously improving his skills. He expressed his passion and love for the game, emphasizing that he is not someone who just goes through the motions at practice. Armstead’s dedication to football sets him apart from other players and underscores his value as a professional athlete. His move to the Jaguars signifies a new chapter in his career and an opportunity to showcase his talent in a new environment.
