JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jacksonville Jaguars released veteran guard Chris Naeole today, parting with a key member of the offensive line.

Naeole, a first-round pick by New Orleans in 1997, started 87 games for the Jaguars over the past six seasons.

He attended Kahuku High School and played for the University of Colorado.

But the 33-year-old lineman missed the final eight games last year after tearing a quadriceps tendon. He also skipped a voluntary passing camp last May because he was unhappy with his contract.

It was unclear why the Jaguars released Naeole, who had two years remaining on his contract and would have made $2.1 million next season.

Without Naeole, the Jaguars could turn the position over to durable backup Dennis Norman or second-year player Uche Nwaneri.

Jacksonville also might re-sign free agent Maurice Williams, who filled in for Naeole last season.