David Garrard
The unheralded hero who led the Jaguars to their second consecutive playoff appearance with grit and poise.
David Garrard represents a pivotal era of stability and resilience for the Jacksonville Jaguars during the mid-2000s. Acquired from the Oakland Raiders in a trade that would define his legacy, Garrard stepped into a franchise searching for an identity after the departure of Mark Brunell. His tenure is characterized by clutch performances, a deep playoff run to the divisional round, and a reputation as one of the most reliable quarterbacks in Jaguars history.
- Role
- Starting Quarterback
- Tenure
- 2006–2011
- Draft Origin
- Undrafted (Acquired via Trade)
- Key Achievement
- Led team to Divisional Playoff Round (2007)
- Legacy Status
- Franchise Leader in Career Passing Yards (at time of departure)
Lore & Background
The defining moment of Garrard's career came in the 2007 season, where he orchestrated one of the most efficient offenses in the NFL. His connection with receiver Mike Sims-Walker and tight end Marcedes Lewis became legendary among fans. Despite facing injuries that would sideline many, Garrard returned to lead the team on a remarkable road victory against the New England Patriots in Foxborough, a game often cited as one of the greatest regular-season upsets in franchise history.
In Their Own Story
The rain slicked the turf at EverBank Field, blurring the lights above into streaks of white and gold. Garrard wiped his visor, the mud on his jersey weighing him down after another scramble out of a collapsing pocket. The defense was closing in, but he spotted the seam. With a deep breath that seemed to steady the entire stadium, he launched the ball toward the end zone. It wasn't just a play; it was a testament to a career built on proving doubters wrong, one drive at a time.
Reader's Guide
The David Garrard era began in earnest during the 2006 season when he took over as the starter mid-year. This period marked a shift from the experimental years of previous quarterbacks to a more physical, run-first approach that Garrard managed with precision. By 2007, Garrard had firmly established himself as the face of the franchise. Under head coach Jack Del Rio, he led the team to a 12-4 record and a divisional playoff berth. The season included historic road wins against elite teams like the New England Patriots and the Pittsburgh Steelers. The years following saw Garrard battling injuries that limited his availability in 2008 and beyond, yet whenever healthy, he remained the clear leader on the field. His tenure concluded after the 2011 season, leaving behind a legacy of durability and leadership during a turbulent time for the organization.
Did You Know?
- David Garrard was not drafted out of college but entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent before being traded to Jacksonville.
- He holds the franchise record for most career passing yards at the time of his departure from the team.
- Garrard's 2007 season is often remembered for leading the Jaguars to a victory over the eventual Super Bowl champion New England Patriots on their home field.