JACKSONVILLE – He's a familiar face. Very familiar.
More than that, he's one of the Jaguars' most-reliable veteran backups – which is the biggest reason Tyler Shatley is returning next season.
Shatley, an offensive/guard center, has agreed to terms to remain with the Jaguars. The Jaguars announced the move Thursday – one day after Shatley became an unrestricted free agent at the start of the NFL's 2020 League Year.
"It's always good when you can get someone back who has worked extremely hard, and is progressing," Jaguars Head Coach Doug Marrone said of Shatley. "He's someone who you feel like can go in there and win games for you and is a guy who can go in there and compete.
"Those positions are important as we move forward."
Shatley, who originally signed with the Jaguars as a collegiate free agent following the 2014 NFL Draft, was active in 16 games last season. While he did not start a game last season because all Jaguars starting interior offensive linemen remained healthy, Shatley remained critical to the offense as the "swing" guard/center.
Shatley (6-feet-3, 310), 28, has played in 78 games with 15 starts in six NFL seasons.
"He's been great while he has been here," Marrone said. "He's gone in and been in some tough situations and done a nice job. We're happy and we're ready for him to take that next step."
Shatley's signing gives the Jaguars five interior offensive linemen with previous NFL playing experience: Shatley, starting center Brandon Linder, starting guards Andrew Norwell and A.J. Cann and reserve guard Will Richardson Jr.
Shatley and Linder are the second-longest tenured players, having joined the Jaguars in the 2014 offseason. Defensive tackle Abry Jones is the longest-tenured player on the team, having signed with the Jaguars as a collegiate free agent following the 2013 NFL Draft.
"Tyler has worked hard during his career to improve his craft and contribute to the team in every facet," Marrone said. "I appreciate his commitment to this team and franchise and look forward to his continued progression."
