Jaguars executive Harris resigns

Dec 23, 2008 - 5:33 PM JACKSONVILLE, Florida (Ticker) -- With one game remaining in their disappointing season, the Jacksonville Jaguars on Tuesday shook up their front office.

James Harris resigned as the team's vice president of player personnel, a position he held since 2003.

The move is effective at the conclusion of the season. Harris, one of the first black quarterbacks to be drafted into the NFL, will be replaced by Gene Smith.

Harris played 12 seasons in the NFL (1969-81) before embarking on a scouting career in 1987.

"I want to thank Shack (Harris) for his contributions and his hard work in helping us rebuild this team," Jaguars owner Wayne Weaver said. "When he and (coach) Jack Del Rio joined us six years ago we were coming off three straight losing seasons, and Shack helped build a strong roster that returned us to the playoffs.

"Though this season has not been what we all hoped for, there have been many great moments over the last six years. I want to wish Shack all the best in the coming year and beyond."

Smith, 44, has served in several roles in the Jaguars' personnel department since 1994. Last January, he was promoted to the position of executive director/college and pro personnel.

"Gene Smith has been with us since the inception of this franchise, and he has steadily been groomed for this kind of responsibility," Weaver added.

The Jaguars (5-10) close their season at Baltimore on Sunday.