NFL Rumors: DT Folorunso Fatukasi Released by Jaguars on His Birthday

Folorunso Fatukasi received some unfortunate news as he celebrated his 29th birthday, as ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported the Jacksonville Jaguars released the defensive tackle on Monday.

A few hours before his release, the Jaguars wished Fatukasi a happy birthday in a post on X.

While Jacksonville's social media team was likely unaware of his impending transaction, it's still an unfortunate coincidence. Fatukasi signed with the Jaguars during the 2022 offseason for three years and $30 million (via Over The Cap). Releasing him saves the team just over $3.5 million against the cap, but also creates $9.269 million in dead money.

Fatukasi was brought in for his ability to stop the run after three impressive seasons with the New York Jets, racking up 18 tackles for loss from 2019 through 2021. He wasn't able to provide the same impact in Jacksonville, recording just five total tackles for loss in 30 appearances over the past two seasons.

While his performance on the field was disappointing relative to his contract, he is still a capable run defender who played an important role on Jacksonville's playoff team in 2022.

Although another $30 million deal may not be in his future during the 2023 offseason, it wouldn't be a surprise to see opposing teams express interest in him after his unlucky birthday release.