Jags promote Smith to GM

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Jan. 12 (UPI) -- Gene Smith, who has been with the Jacksonville Jaguars since their inception, Monday was named general manager and senior vice president of player personnel.

Smith , 45, replaces James Harris, who resigned from the vice president's position Dec. 23.

"The changes we are making will bring greater clarity in responsibilities, with Gene Smith having final say in personnel decisions and (Coach) Jack Del Rio having final say in all coaching decisions," said team owner Wayne Weaver.

Smith is one of 15 current staff members who joined the club in its first year.

"Our challenge is to build a playoff-caliber team that can compete to win a world championship," Smith said. "I'm looking forward to developing a roster with Jack that will give our coaching staff a competitive advantage."

Terry McDonough was named director of player personnel, Tim Mingey assistant director of college personnel and Andy Dengler national scout.

The Jaguars finished the 2008 season 5-11 after going 11-5 record in 2007.