The Jacksonville Jaguars have continued to refine their 90-man offseason roster by waiving offensive lineman Cooper Hodges, a move announced on Friday, April 17, 2026. This roster adjustment signals typical NFL offseason activity as the Jaguars prepare for training camp and the upcoming season.
Contrary to some earlier incorrect reports, the Jaguars' current General Manager is James Gladstone and the Head Coach is Liam Coen. Both figures lead the decision-making process regarding roster moves including this particular transaction involving Hodges. Cooper Hodges, who was drafted by Jacksonville in 2023 and has been battling injuries since, was waived after failing a physical, which aligns with reports indicating recurring knee concerns.
Hodges' release effectively opens a roster spot for the Jaguars. The team now has greater roster flexibility to explore talent avenues, be it through the upcoming NFL Draft, veteran tryouts, or signing undrafted rookies. Should Hodges go unclaimed on waivers, Jacksonville plans to have him revert to their Reserve/Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list rather than outright severing ties, consistent with the team's management of injured players.
The move comes as the Jaguars look to solidify their offensive line depth behind a stable starting lineup. While the article incorrectly mentioned Cam Robinson and Mitch Morse as starters, neither is currently with the Jacksonville Jaguars. The verified offensive line roster includes players such as Chuma Edoga (#55), Anton Harrison (#77), Cooper Hodges (#75) (until his recent release), and center Robert Hainsey (#73). The Jaguars have invested in younger linemen and prospects as they move forward.
This roster space vacated by Hodges likely signals confidence in younger players and possibly a strategic choice to select a developmental lineman in the late rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft. The Jaguars hold a full slate of picks and have commonly targeted line depth during these rounds. Additionally, the post-draft free agent period will be instrumental for acquiring depth players able to contribute on special teams and provide value during the long NFL season.
Hodges' tenure with the Jaguars has been limited by injuries including a knee injury in November 2024 and complications in 2025 that have hampered his availability. Despite these setbacks, he has contributed in games but ultimately could not solidify his spot amid a competitive positional group.
This transaction exemplifies the nature of the NFL offseason: continuous evaluation, roster flexibility, and strategic adjustments. Such moves, though not always headline-grabbing, are vital in constructing a roster that can withstand the rigors of an NFL season.
Looking ahead, the Jaguars will leverage their draft capital and development programs to further build offensive line depth. The coaching staff, led by Head Coach Liam Coen and Offensive Coordinator Grant Udinski, continues to emphasize both protection for quarterback Trevor Lawrence and establishing a strong running game, key priorities for the team's contention goals in the AFC South.
In conclusion, while Cooper Hodges' waiver does not drastically alter the Jaguars' roster outlook, it illustrates their ongoing commitment to roster improvement and the harsh realities of NFL roster management. The offseason grind continues as the Jaguars position themselves for a competitive 2026 season.