The Jacksonville Jaguars declined Dante Fowler's fifth-year option, which has motivated the defensive end.

Fowler, the third-overall pick in 2015, had a career-high eight sacks in 2017.

If the Jaguars had picked up his option, Fowler would have earned a base salary of $14.2 million. Instead, he enters the final year of his rookie contract on a base salary of $3.6 million.

"I know how good of a player I am," he said. "I know I'm one of the best players in this league. When I go out there, I'm going to make the best of my opportunities every time. I'm working hard to have the best season of my career."