Just in: “Former Indiana Defensive Star Seals Million Dollar NFL Deal with Jacksonville Jaguars, Eyes Rookie Season Triumph”

May 14, 2024

Andre, a former defensive tackle for Indiana University, has officially inked a three-year rookie contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars. The deal, reported by Sportrac, amounts to $2.83 million over the duration, with an average yearly salary of $943,333. It notably lacks any guaranteed money or signing bonuses. In 2024, Andre’s base salary stands at $795,000, followed by $960,000 in 2025 and $1.075 million in 2026. If he were to be released before contract completion, his cap hit would mirror his base salary. Completing the full term would see him transition into restricted free agency by 2027.

Standing tall at 6-foot-5 and weighing 270 pounds, Andre went undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft but swiftly found a home as an undrafted free agent with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He’s primed to compete for a spot on the team’s 53-man roster or practice squad during the upcoming 2024 season, commencing with rookie mini-camp this month.

During his lone season with Indiana University, Andre swiftly made his mark as one of the team’s most prolific defensive linemen. His standout performance earned him recognition as an All-Big Ten Honorable Mention, boasting 49 tackles, 11.0 tackles for loss, 2.0 sacks, four quarterback hurries, and three pass breakups.

Prior to his time at Indiana, Andre transferred from Western Michigan ahead of the 2023 season, where he showcased his talents over five stellar seasons. With the Broncos, he amassed impressive statistics, tallying 135 tackles, 29.0 tackles for loss, 14.0 sacks, one interception, one safety, five pass deflections, and six forced fumbles. His senior year in 2022 particularly stood out, earning him an All-Second Team MAC selection with 68 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, 7.0 sacks, two forced fumbles, one interception, and one safety.

Indiana University’s absence from the NFL Draft for two consecutive years marks its lengthiest drought since the 2012-13 seasons. While not invited to this year’s NFL Combine, Andre did showcase his abilities during IU’s Pro Day earlier this spring, garnering attention from scouts.

In a parallel narrative, former Indiana standout linebacker Cam Jones embarked on a similar journey, signing as an undrafted free agent with the Kansas City Chiefs last season and remaining with the team through their Super Bowl-winning campaign. This offseason saw both Andre and former Indiana linebacker Aaron Casey secure deals as undrafted free agents, with Casey joining the Cincinnati Bengals.

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