Del Rio Denies Brunell on Trading Block

Despite national reports that the Jacksonville Jaguars are shopping the services of veteran quarterback Mark Brunell, head coach Jack Del Rio angrily denied there was any truth to the rumors. Several major sports outlets reported on Monday that the Jags had offered Brunell to the New York Jets, Dallas Cowboys and Baltimore Ravens, but they were turned down by all three.

On Tuesday, the rookie head coach told the Florida Times-Union, "I'm seeing the coverage and the hype, and I'm sure it makes for good reading, but there's nothing else to report, just like there's been nothing to report since Day One, other than the fact we're going to play the best 11 guys in the season opener against Carolina."

There has been increased speculation that the Jaguars might cut Brunell if a deal can't be worked out, but Del Rio insists he is their starting quarterback. Of course, if the Jags really are trying to trade their signal caller, Del Rio may just be giving the appearance that he plans to use Brunell so that he might bring a draft pick in return. As it stands now, no one will be willing to deal for Brunell's $6.75 million contract if they think he might be cut loose and signed to a more cap-friendly deal.