“I will always be grateful to Detroit” I promise that by giving a young person from Atlanta, Georgia, the opportunity to compete on the biggest football field, you have given me a memory that I will never forget. I will always treasure the city you helped me become. Always Appreciative, Jacobs, JerryThis moving speech demonstrates Jacobs’ gratitude for the chance to play in the NFL and his affection for the community that welcomed him.
The Detroit Lions had the option to extend an offer to Jacobs, a restricted free agent, for a one-year contract worth $2.985 million, or for a “right of first refusal.” Through this tender, Jacobs would have the choice to sign with the Lions or look for a better offer from another team, with Detroit able to match any offers he might receive. The Lions have opted not to use this option, thereby giving up the opportunity to retain Jacobs in accordance with these conditions.
Due to this decision, Jacobs will become an unrestricted free agent on Wednesday, March 13, at 4 p.m. ET, unless the Lions and him work out an extension within the next week. The decision to release Jacobs marks a change in the team’s tactics and roster construction, ushering in a new era for the player and the organization.
In addition to marking the end of the player’s professional career, Jerry Jacobs’ departure from the Detroit Lions represents a shift in the interaction between NFL franchises and the athletes who play for them. Jacobs’ parting speech serves as a reminder of the significant influence that a city and a team can have on a person’s life and goals as he gets ready for the next phase of his career.
