Jaguars will let Jones-Drew test free agency

Team would like to have running back return in 2014

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jaguars General Manager Dave Caldwell says the team will not sign running back Maurice Jones-Drew prior to the start of free agency.

"I'm not pessimistic at all about it," Cadlwell said at the team's season-ending press conference. "I think he's earned the right to go to free agency."

Jones-Drew rushed for 803 yards and five touchdowns this season, but averaged a career-low 3.4 yards per carry.

Caldwell went on to say he would like to have Jones-Drew return to the team in 2014, as long as the money is right.

In other Jaguars news, Caldwell said it's a possibility the team could re-sign Chad Henne before free agency begins on March 11. Backup quarterback Blaine Gabbert has one more year left on his contract. Caldwell says they told Gabbert they want him back next season and that there's no downside to keeping him. However, Caldwell admitted it's unlikely the Jaguars would keep Gabbert if they draft a quarterback and re-sign Chad Henne.

Finally, Gus Bradley announced all assistant coaches will be back next season.