Clint

Session

Session also had a “terrifying” concussion in college, and estimates five in his playing career. He’s finally feeling better after an “active” concussion rehab program at the University of Pittsburgh to aid the healing process. Although the 27-year-old struggled a bit in coverage, he was a key component of Jacksonville’s improved run defense in the first half of the season. His healthy return will send Russell Allen back to a reserve role in 2012.

Roth considered playing through the headaches, but opted against it after hearing from other NFL players. He hopes to be cleared of symptoms in a few weeks. An impending free agent, Roth wants to return to Jacksonville in 2012.

Session was forced from last week’s game with a concussion that must have set off alarms among the Jaguars’ medical staff. It was his second concussion since the preseason. A key cog in Jacksonville’s vastly improved defense over the first 10 weeks, Session recorded 30 tackles, one sack, and one forced fumble prior to the injury. As long as he checks out medically, Session will return as a starter in 2012.

Session sustained three concussions last year before his season ended in November. He also had a “terrifying” concussion in college. Beat writer Vito Stellino suggests that Session’s career could be in jeopardy. Russell Allen is the backup at weak-side linebacker.

Mularkey sounded like Session might miss the entire season. “It’s definitely a concern,” said the new Jaguars’ coach. “We don’t know the future with him.” The Jags overpaid Session to the tune of $29 million over five years last offseason, with $11.5 million guaranteed. He appeared in ten games in 2011.

Allen is at worst the Jaguars’ top backup at all three linebacker positions, and he held his own in six spot starts last season. With a new coaching staff in Jacksonville, Session’s $29 million contract no longer carries as much weight in camp battles. Session was concussed three times last year.

Session sustained three concussions in 2011 and had a severe one in college. Much like Jahvid Best and Austin Collie, he’s wisely exercising extreme caution now. The Jags will be forced to roll with Russell Allen at weak-side linebacker. He had 38 tackles, one interception and two forced fumbles in six starts last season.

FB Will Ta’ufo’ou was signed in a corresponding move. On the PUP list all season, Session had no timetable for a return following a trio of 2011 concussions. His career may well be over after the Jags signed him to a five-year, $29 million contract following the lockout. Stovall was a special teamer in Jacksonville.

Smith did participate in a limited practice Thursday, so we wouldn’t rule him out just yet. He’s started 37 consecutive games for the Jags. WLB Clint Session missed practice with a sore elbow Thursday, so the Jags’ linebacker crops will be at less than full strength this week.

Smith’s availability is a needed plus against a Pittsburgh passing game that’s picked it up with Max Starks returning at left tackle. Session’s loss could be felt in run defense. He’s been a two-down linebacker so far.