Jaguars DT DaVon Hamilton dealing with 'a non-football related medical issue with his back'

Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson talks after an preseason NFL football game against the Detroit Lions in Detroit, Saturday, Aug. 19, 2023. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Jacksonville Jaguars defensive tackle DaVon Hamilton, who signed a three-year, $34.5 million contract extension in April, has a back issue that has him sidelined indefinitely.

The Jaguars released a cryptic statement Sunday after Hamilton was spotted leaving Ford Field on crutches a day earlier. He did not play in the team's exhibition game at Detroit, but he did practice with the Lions on Wednesday and Thursday.

“DaVon Hamilton is currently dealing with a non-football related medical issue with his back," the Jaguars said. "At this time, we do not have a timetable on his return. Our medical staff plans to keep us informed on his progress, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.”

Calling it a “non-football related medical issue” raises speculation that Hamilton has an illness or did something outside the scope of a game or practice. It also means Hamilton could land on the non-football injury list.

Hamilton, a third-round draft pick from Ohio State in 2020, had a career-high 56 tackles, including 2 1/2 sacks, last season. The Jaguars rewarded him with an extension that included $20 million fully guaranteed at signing.

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