Charlie68 Posted February 19, 2005 Share Posted February 19, 2005 http://proxy.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=1993739 Scouts Inc. The NFL's offseason moratorium on roster moves comes to an end on Feb 22, a week before the free-agent signing period begins. While players scheduled to become free agents have been making plans for weeks, there is another large group of players who could be facing uncertain futures, as well. Our scouts have examined every roster and compared on-field performance with salary and contract status to come up with an extensive list of veterans whose contracts are candidates for the chopping block. Would you believe Warren Sapp? Michael Strahan? What about Willie McGinest? Here's the entire list: Defensive end Michael Strahan, N.Y. Giants Strahan is 33, has clashed with coach Tom Coughlin, and his durability is a concern. With a $5.5 million base salary in 2005, he might force the organization's hand if he balks at a restructured deal. Trevor Pryce, Denver The bad back that wiped out his 2004 season draws his durability into question. Pryce's salary over the next four years (from $6.5 to $9 million) is a lot of money to devote to an injury risk. If the Broncos aren't able to trade him, his contract could be restructured. Kevin Carter, Tennessee His versatility is valued, but he has a lot of mileage on his body and doesn't make enough plays. With a base salary of $6.75 million and another $2 million in possible incentives for 2005, he likely will be asked to renegotiate or hit the road. Warren Sapp, Oakland He never looked comfortable and was pushed around too much in Oakland's 3-4 scheme. He is 32 and no longer a dominant player, and his salary and incentives could add up to $4.5 million in 2005. But he might return if the Raiders go to a 4-3. Courtney Brown, Cleveland A huge disappointment. His salary over the next two years totals more than $13 million, and he plays only half the time. It might be time to cut the cord. Marcellus Wiley, Dallas An underachiever in San Diego and now Dallas, he is owed more than $10 million over the next three years. That's a lot of money for a guy who makes very few plays. Vonnie Holliday, Kansas City He hasn't lived up to expectations and, nearing 30, could start slowing down anytime. His base of $2.2 million is manageable, but bonuses of $5.225 million are exorbitant. He will either renegotiate or be gone. John Parrella, Oakland His playing time is down, and age and injuries have become a factor. Parrella's cap number is around $4 million, a lot of money for an aging part-time player on a club trying to get younger. Travis Hall, Atlanta A 33-year-old backup due a $3 million base salary and $1 million bonus in March. He still is an effective run stopper and character guy, but he might have to take a dramatic pay cut to return. Kenny Mixon, Minnesota The Vikings like their young guys at this position, and Mixon is due $3.8 million in 2005. It would be surprising to see a player who posted only 2.5 sacks last season return at anything other than a greatly reduced price. Antonio Cochran, Seattle He played fairly well in 2004 (he finished with 6.5 sacks), but a $2 million salary for next season probably is too steep for a role player on a team with many free agents. Jay Williams, Miami He is a 33-year-old backup set to make $900,000 in 2005, with an additional bonus of $400,000 due in March. Miami has an aging defense and wants to get younger. Defensive tackle La'Roi Glover, Dallas Though still a good player, he is 31 and due $4 million in base and bonuses. Glover will be a poor fit if the Cowboys, contemplating an overhaul of the defense, switch from a 4-3 to 3-4 scheme. Sam Adams, Buffalo He still is an excellent two-gap run stuffer, but his age and conditioning are serious concerns. Because defensive tackle Pat Williams is a free agent, Buffalo might bring Adams back despite a salary that could put him in the range of $2.5 million next season. Dan Wilkinson, Detroit He has settled in nicely with the Lions and benefits from playing next to Shaun Rogers. But $2.125 million for a 32-year-old journeyman might be too much. Gerard Warren, Cleveland The new regime in Cleveland might revamp the defensive line and let go of this classic underachiever. Warren already has redone his contract once, and he still is overpaid for his production. Bryant Young, San Francisco He is an old 33, with many durability issues on a team in salary-cap hell. Young is an important leader on this club, but the 49ers might not be able to pay him the $2.25 million he is due in 2005. Lional Dalton, Kansas City He is a journeyman who doesn't make many big plays and won't improve enough to merit a $1.2 million base salary for 2005. Brandon Noble, Washington He is a tough, hardnosed overachiever, but at age 32 his body isn't holding up well. His $1.5 million in 2005 is too much for a backup. Noble could wind up renegotiating. Inside linebacker Mike Barrow, Washington At 35 and due $1.74 million in 2005, he could get his deal redone and stick around another season. Sam Cowart, N.Y. Jets His production has tailed off, and he now is a backup behind Jonathan Vilma. He won't reclaim the starting job, and the Jets have little use for a 30-year-old backup who will make more than $3 million in 2005. Roman Phifer, New England A solid backup and team guy, but at 37 he is on the way down. His base salary ($800,000) is acceptable, but he is due a $1.2 million bonus that could force the team to tweak his contract. Orlando Ruff, New Orleans He is a two-down run defender whose pass-defense skills are limited. The Saints' movement to get younger and more athletic coupled with his $1.1 million salary make Ruff a candidate for release or renegotiation. Ted Johnson, New England At age 32 and with a history of injuries, he isn't likely to stick around while making $1.7 million in 2005. He still can contribute as a run stopper on first and second downs. Near the end of his career, he might consider a re-done deal. Outside linebacker Derrick Brooks, Tampa Bay He isn't getting any younger, and he already has restructured his contract once, at a 2005 salary figure ($6 million) that might be difficult for the Buccaneers to swallow. Chad Brown, Seattle He still is a decent player at age 35, but his skills are in decline, he can't stay healthy, and he carries a cap number of more than $5 million in 2005. Seattle can't afford that kind of uncertainty. Nate Wayne, Philadelphia Hardly the playmaker the Eagles thought they were getting, he isn't physical against the run and doesn't have a well-defined role in the future of the franchise. Peter Boulware, Baltimore Injuries claimed his entire 2004 season, and he might be starting to fall apart physically. He still can produce as a 3-4 rush linebacker when healthy, but he isn't worth the risk at $6 million. Dexter Coakley, Dallas In a potential overhaul of the defense, the Cowboys likely would get bigger and more physical. Coakley is 32 and due $3.8 million in base salary and bonuses in 2005. Junior Seau, Miami After finishing the year on injured reserve, he might opt to retire. With $4 million due in salary and bonuses in 2005, Seau simply is too expensive a luxury for this team. Willie McGinest, New England He still is a versatile impact player, but $9 million is a lot to pay for a 33-year-old on this team. Coach Bill Belichick likes him, so McGinest could come back with a restructured contract. Kevin Hardy, Cincinnati He came to Cincinnati as a savior at middle linebacker, but he failed there and hasn't looked much better outside. Hardy's agility and range are declining, making his $2.6 million salary a risk not worth taking. Ray Thompson, Arizona Undersized and oft-injured, he makes too much money for a reserve and is an off-field risk. Thompson faces a likely one-year suspension if he violates league rules again. Travian Smith, Oakland A terrific athlete who never has lived up to his potential, he is a backup who will make $2 million in 2005. Knowing he won't get any better, paying him that well makes no sense. Cornerback Samari Rolle, Tennessee Injuries have become a huge concern for this still-solid player. A $5.5 million base salary for 2005 makes him a luxury the Titans can't afford. Patrick Surtain, Miami Surtain has a big cap number, and the Dolphins want to get younger at cornerback. They aren't likely to cut both Surtain and Sam Madison, but they might entertain trade offers. Sam Madison, Miami Though still an excellent cover corner, he is 31 and has an $8 million cap number. The Dolphins' new regime might decide to cut ties before his skills start to erode. Ronde Barber, Tampa Bay Though he is a Pro Bowl player, he might be a product of Tampa Bay's cover-2 scheme. Moreover, he is scheduled to make more than $4 million in each of the next two years. Tyrone Poole, New England After he finished the season on injured reserve, age and durability are significant concerns. He no longer is a shutdown guy, and it's doubtful the Patriots will pay $2.4 million for a No. 2 or No. 3 corner. Mario Edwards, Tampa Bay A talented player who doesn't always play up to his potential. He is due $1.6 million in salary and another $1.6 million in offseason bonus money. The Buccaneers probably aren't willing to pay him that much. Duane Starks, Arizona Injuries have prevented him from living up to his expected role of shutdown corner. A nickel back probably isn't worth the $3.6 million Starks is due in 2005. Artrell Hawkins, Carolina Though he has decent cover skills, he gives up too many big plays and isn't very disciplined. Hawkins' $1.8 million salary figure for 2005 is high for a backup whose contributions are limited. Donnie Abraham, N.Y. Jets He gets by as a starter, but he lacks great cover skills and isn't getting any better at age 31. His 2005 salary of $1.5 million might be too hefty for a cap-challenged club. Aaron Glenn, Houston He still has value at age 33, but his cover skills are in decline. Glenn probably can play another year or two at a relatively high level, but he won't live up to a $4 million annual salary. Juran Bolden, Jacksonville Set to make almost $2 million in base and incentives in 2005, he is a 31-year-old backup who has been a huge disappointment. The Jaguars want younger and faster cover guys. Chad Scott, Pittsburgh He will turn 31 before next season and his body is starting to break down. Pittsburgh is unlikely to pay him the $3.885 million he is scheduled to receive in 2005. Corey Fuller, Baltimore A good team guy, but at 34 his skills are eroding. It's unlikely the speed- and athleticism-conscious Ravens will pay his $1.25 million salary in 2005. Ken Irvin, Minnesota At 33 and having spent most of last season on injured reserve, how much could he have left? The money-conscious Vikings will take a long look at trimming his $1.5 million salary from the books. R.W. McQuarters, Chicago A decent player, but he might be starting to break down and isn't good enough to be earning $3 million-plus in 2005. Chicago has decent young talent at the position and could threaten to cut McQuarters if he doesn't restructure. Safety Shaun Williams, N.Y. Giants He is coming off a major injury and doesn't make as many plays as he did early in his career. New York has a lot of needs and seems unlikely to pay him the $4 million he's slated to receive in 2005. Lance Schulters, Tennessee He has been nicked up and hasn't been the impact player the Titans thought he would be. Schulters' $2.75 million base salary is a real stretch for this team. John Lynch, Denver He has given the defense a tougher identity, but at age 33, Lynch has a lot of wear and tear on his body. The Broncos could go younger or pay $2.5 million for a one-dimensional player. Reggie Tongue, N.Y. Jets He still is a big hitter, but the Jets are looking for defensive backs with better coverage skills. At 31, with a $700,000 base salary and $400,000 bonus due, Tongue is a target for roster trimming. Brian Walker, Detroit An intimidating run stuffer who has limited pass coverage skills, he is 33 and starting to lose what speed he has. His $1.6 million cap figure for 2005 doesn't match what he brings to the table. Pierson Prioleau, Buffalo A relatively unproductive backup, he is due $1.25 million in 2005. The Bills want more speed and athletic ability at the position, and will look for an upgrade. Arturo Freeman, Miami He is a starter, but he doesn't make enough plays to justify his $3 million salary. Freeman is better suited to be a (more moderately priced) No. 3 safety. -------------------- Offense Quarterbacks Steve McNair, Tennessee He is due $7.5 million in 2005 and an astronomical $50 million bonus in 2006 on a backloaded contract. Durability is a big concern, and those numbers will be restrictive for the Titans even if McNair does stay on the field. McNair has said he's willing to restructure his contract, but he hasn't said definitively whether he plans to return next season. Brooks Aaron Brooks, New Orleans Coach Jim Haslett's reprieve in New Orleans might have saved Brooks. He is a great talent who doesn't play with a sense of urgency. The Saints might ask him to redo a deal that will pay him $5.5 million in 2005. Jake Plummer, Denver It isn't a lock the Broncos will pay the $6 million roster bonus he is due March 1. Plummer's salary isn't out of whack, but the organization could go another direction after an up-and-down season. Drew Bledsoe, Buffalo The Bills already have announced they will release Bledsoe and elevate second-year QB J.P. Losman to the starting job. Rich Gannon, Oakland There is almost no chance he will return. He has a huge, $8 million base salary in 2005 and is not a good fit in coach Norv Turner's offense or on this club. Brad Johnson, Tampa Bay Unless he takes a dramatic pay cut, he won't return to a roster that is pretty well set at quarterback. A salary of $6 million in 2005 and $7 million in '06 is outlandish for a 37-year-old third-stringer. Jay Fiedler, Miami Neither Fiedler nor A.J. Feeley appears to be the long-term answer at quarterback for Miami. Fiedler is too pricey (more than $5.7 million in 2005) for a backup, and his biggest supporter (Dave Wannstedt) is gone. Brian Griese, Tampa Bay He carries a $2 million salary figure for 2005, but also is due a $6 million bonus in March. Griese isn't likely to see that money, but he played well enough in 2004 to earn a restructured deal. Rodney Peete, Carolina He gives the coaching staff a level of comfort, but he isn't worth $1 million annually at his age. Peete could renegotiate and return for a year, but the Panthers need to start developing a young backup. Chris Weinke, Carolina At 32, he is no better than a journeyman backup and no longer can be considered a developmental project. It's unlikely Carolina will pay him the $1.2 million he is due in 2005. Fullbacks James Hodgins, Arizona He was expected to be a force in the run game, but it didn't happen. (He finished the season on injured reserve.) Though Hodgins has great size, all he can do is block, limiting his usefulness in Dennis Green's system. Mike Anderson, Denver A severe groin injury hampered him all last season, and he will be a 31-year-old injury risk carrying a $2.16 million base salary in 2005. The Broncos have other options at his position. Running backs Marshall Faulk, St. Louis He is starting to look like a part-time player, with age and durability becoming big concerns. He has a $7 million cap number for 2005, so it might be time for he and the Rams to part company. Jerome Bettis, Pittsburgh He is the comeback story of 2004 and is running like a player five years younger than his 33 years. Turning him loose will be a tough call for this organization, but Bettis is due more than $5 million in 2005. Michael Bennett, Minnesota Though not a candidate to get cut, he very well could be traded. The Vikings are loaded at running back, prefer to build through the draft and could net a fairly high draft choice for him. Tight end Kyle Brady, Jacksonville At age 33, he still is a physical and effective run blocker, but he offers little as a receiver. With more teams using offensive tackles as short-yardage blocking tight ends, can Jacksonville live with Brady's cap number (almost $3 million)? Dwayne Carswell, Denver He has been serviceable, but Denver uses many tight ends, and Carswell hardly is dominant. The Broncos could go younger and cheaper in a committee approach. Jay Riemersma, Pittsburgh He is 32, comes with endless durability questions and isn't the blocking tight end Pittsburgh wants. We can't see the Steelers paying him $1.3 million in 2005. Wide receiver Derrick Mason, Tennessee His name seems to be on this list every year, but he always dodges the bullet. But Mason's $3.2 million base salary and $1.5 million in incentives for 2005 might be too much for the cap-strapped Titans to handle this time. Rod Smith, Denver He could see his skills start to decline soon, and his salary will be in the $5 million range in 2005. But he is Denver's most consistent weapon, and the Broncos don't have a replacement ready. Isaac Bruce, St. Louis St. Louis has good, young depth at receiver, and Bruce's salary over the next four years (from $4 million to $7 million) isn't a drop in the bucket. The Rams might have to let a good player go before he becomes a liability. Kevin Johnson, Baltimore Once a solid No. 1 receiver, he has been no better than a No. 3 for the Ravens, who need an upgrade. His base salary of $1.4 million and potential bonus of over $2 million is too much. Do you renegotiate or cut a 29-year-old backup? Johnson might do the Ravens a favor by opting out of his contract in favor of free agency. Koren Robinson, Seattle His off-field problems and favorable salary make him a strong trade candidate. The Seahawks are turned off by his act and dropped passes. Troy Brown, New England He is the ultimate team guy, but he is 34, his production on offense is in steep decline and his cap number is around $5.7 million. Coach Bill Belichick doesn't play favorites. Muhsin Muhammad, Carolina Carolina almost dumped him a year ago but wisely chose not to. Due a huge $10 million bonus in the offseason, he likely will renegotiate and receive a more cap-friendly deal. Jerome Pathon, New Orleans The Saints aren't known as big spenders, and a $3.25 million salary for a quality No. 3 receiver probably is too much. But he is a tough matchup in the slot, so the team might try to restructure his deal. David Terrell, Chicago The ultimate teaser, he never has lived up to great expectations. He no longer can be considered a developing talent, and the Bears' offense desperately needs a playmaker. Az-Zahir Hakim, Detroit With Charles Rogers and Roy Williams making a lot of money, the position is financially out of whack. Hakim, the No. 3 receiver, has a $4 million cap number in 2005. Derrius Thompson, Miami He has the size and skills but never has played up to expectations. The Dolphins have a new coaching staff, loads of needs and won't want to pay $1.2 million for a No. 3 receiver. Center Jeff Mitchell, Carolina One of the most underrated players in the league, he rarely makes a mistake. The Panthers want to keep him, but his $2 million salary and $1 million bonus are steep. He could be a candidate for renegotiation. Trey Teague, Buffalo The Bills would like to upgrade the position in free agency or the draft. They are not likely to keep Teague, who is scheduled to make a $1.25 million base salary and is due a $1 million bonus in training camp. Jeff Hartings, Pittsburgh He still is a good player, but at age 32 he is starting to slip. With a $4.2 million base salary, he could renegotiate and get another year or two out of his career. Mike Wahle, Green Bay He is due a $5 million salary and $6 million roster bonus in 2005. The Packers likely will try to bring him back at a more cap-friendly cost, but Wahle could be released if he balks. Offensive guard Ruben Brown, Chicago His 2005 salary ($1.265 million) is acceptable, but he has lived on reputation the last few years and the Bears probably want to get younger on the offensive line. Larry Allen, Dallas The Cowboys would like to save some money and get younger at this position. Allen's base salary of $4.5 million in 2005 could lead to him restructuring or testing the open market. Ron Stone, Oakland He had a subpar, injury-marred 2004 season and at 34 is a shell of the player he was a few yeas ago. Due $2.6 million in base salary and incentives in 2005, he isn't likely to return to Oakland. Rex Tucker, Chicago He is tough, but his body has taken a beating. The $2 million Tucker is owed for 2005 is a steep cost for a guy who isn't likely to give you 16 games. Doug Brzezinski, Carolina A journeyman backup who has limited range and athletic ability. The Panthers want to rebuild their offensive line with younger players, and his $1.5 million salary in 2005 is reason enough to look for help elsewhere. Mo Collins, Oakland The Raiders seem committed to Collins in the short term, but his base salary and incentives in 2005 exceed $6 million. The cost is steep, but starting over at quarterback could ruin any progress that has been made. Frank Middleton, Oakland Coming off an injury-marred season and possibly breaking down physically, he is due $3 million in base salary and incentives next season. It's unlikely he will be back. Offensive tackle Chris Samuels, Washington A tremendous talent, he has been an up-and-down performer whose pay is commensurate with a much more consistent player. His 2005 cap number is more than $9 million. Will the team try to renegotiate? Kyle Turley, St. Louis Beyond obvious durability issues, his rift with coach Mike Martz seems irreparable. Add to that equation a $3.65 million base salary in 2005, and Turley is likely to be playing for someone else next year. Jon Runyan, Philadelphia He no longer is a dominant player, and first-round pick Shawn Andrews is being groomed to replace him. With a $5.5 million base salary, he could be let go by the cap-conscious Eagles. Brad Hopkins, Tennessee Tennessee might have to clear out both starting offensive tackles due to salary-cap problems. Hopkins still is a good player, but the Titans probably can't afford his $4.75 million salary for 2005. Matt Lepsis, Denver His move from right tackle to the left side was impressive, but with a base salary of $3.5 million and reachable incentives of $1.5 million he is a renegotiation candidate. Fred Miller, Tennessee He is part of an overpaid offensive tackle tandem, with $9.1 million in base salary and easily reached incentives due him in 2005. That is too costly for a 32-year-old right tackle. Scott Gragg, San Francisco At 33, he has a lot of wear and tear on his body and is starting to slow down. The 49ers have severe salary-cap problems and need to get younger. Dumping his 2005 salary ($3 million) seems a likely part of the solution. L.J. Shelton, Arizona Overrated athletic ability and nagging injuries make him a target in the Cardinals' housecleaning. He was placed on injured reserve during the season, and the coaching staff has no confidence in him. Anthony Clement, Arizona He's getting almost $2.5 million to be a backup. Dennis Green wasn't happy with the play of the offensive line, so big changes are in store. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ramius Posted February 19, 2005 Share Posted February 19, 2005 did that really say 50 mil bonus for mcnair...what type of contract does the guy have...i'm gonna hafta do some research now... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BB2004 Posted February 20, 2005 Share Posted February 20, 2005 http://proxy.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=1993739 Scouts Inc. The NFL's offseason moratorium on roster moves comes to an end on Feb 22, a week before the free-agent signing period begins. While players scheduled to become free agents have been making plans for weeks, there is another large group of players who could be facing uncertain futures, as well. Our scouts have examined every roster and compared on-field performance with salary and contract status to come up with an extensive list of veterans whose contracts are candidates for the chopping block. Would you believe Warren Sapp? Michael Strahan? What about Willie McGinest? Here's the entire list: Defensive end Michael Strahan, N.Y. Giants Strahan is 33, has clashed with coach Tom Coughlin, and his durability is a concern. With a $5.5 million base salary in 2005, he might force the organization's hand if he balks at a restructured deal. Trevor Pryce, Denver The bad back that wiped out his 2004 season draws his durability into question. Pryce's salary over the next four years (from $6.5 to $9 million) is a lot of money to devote to an injury risk. If the Broncos aren't able to trade him, his contract could be restructured. Kevin Carter, Tennessee His versatility is valued, but he has a lot of mileage on his body and doesn't make enough plays. With a base salary of $6.75 million and another $2 million in possible incentives for 2005, he likely will be asked to renegotiate or hit the road. Warren Sapp, Oakland He never looked comfortable and was pushed around too much in Oakland's 3-4 scheme. He is 32 and no longer a dominant player, and his salary and incentives could add up to $4.5 million in 2005. But he might return if the Raiders go to a 4-3. Courtney Brown, Cleveland A huge disappointment. His salary over the next two years totals more than $13 million, and he plays only half the time. It might be time to cut the cord. Marcellus Wiley, Dallas An underachiever in San Diego and now Dallas, he is owed more than $10 million over the next three years. That's a lot of money for a guy who makes very few plays. Vonnie Holliday, Kansas City He hasn't lived up to expectations and, nearing 30, could start slowing down anytime. His base of $2.2 million is manageable, but bonuses of $5.225 million are exorbitant. He will either renegotiate or be gone. John Parrella, Oakland His playing time is down, and age and injuries have become a factor. Parrella's cap number is around $4 million, a lot of money for an aging part-time player on a club trying to get younger. Travis Hall, Atlanta A 33-year-old backup due a $3 million base salary and $1 million bonus in March. He still is an effective run stopper and character guy, but he might have to take a dramatic pay cut to return. Kenny Mixon, Minnesota The Vikings like their young guys at this position, and Mixon is due $3.8 million in 2005. It would be surprising to see a player who posted only 2.5 sacks last season return at anything other than a greatly reduced price. Antonio Cochran, Seattle He played fairly well in 2004 (he finished with 6.5 sacks), but a $2 million salary for next season probably is too steep for a role player on a team with many free agents. Jay Williams, Miami He is a 33-year-old backup set to make $900,000 in 2005, with an additional bonus of $400,000 due in March. Miami has an aging defense and wants to get younger. Defensive tackle La'Roi Glover, Dallas Though still a good player, he is 31 and due $4 million in base and bonuses. Glover will be a poor fit if the Cowboys, contemplating an overhaul of the defense, switch from a 4-3 to 3-4 scheme. Sam Adams, Buffalo He still is an excellent two-gap run stuffer, but his age and conditioning are serious concerns. Because defensive tackle Pat Williams is a free agent, Buffalo might bring Adams back despite a salary that could put him in the range of $2.5 million next season. Dan Wilkinson, Detroit He has settled in nicely with the Lions and benefits from playing next to Shaun Rogers. But $2.125 million for a 32-year-old journeyman might be too much. Gerard Warren, Cleveland The new regime in Cleveland might revamp the defensive line and let go of this classic underachiever. Warren already has redone his contract once, and he still is overpaid for his production. Bryant Young, San Francisco He is an old 33, with many durability issues on a team in salary-cap hell. Young is an important leader on this club, but the 49ers might not be able to pay him the $2.25 million he is due in 2005. Lional Dalton, Kansas City He is a journeyman who doesn't make many big plays and won't improve enough to merit a $1.2 million base salary for 2005. Brandon Noble, Washington He is a tough, hardnosed overachiever, but at age 32 his body isn't holding up well. His $1.5 million in 2005 is too much for a backup. Noble could wind up renegotiating. Inside linebacker Mike Barrow, Washington At 35 and due $1.74 million in 2005, he could get his deal redone and stick around another season. Sam Cowart, N.Y. Jets His production has tailed off, and he now is a backup behind Jonathan Vilma. He won't reclaim the starting job, and the Jets have little use for a 30-year-old backup who will make more than $3 million in 2005. Roman Phifer, New England A solid backup and team guy, but at 37 he is on the way down. His base salary ($800,000) is acceptable, but he is due a $1.2 million bonus that could force the team to tweak his contract. Orlando Ruff, New Orleans He is a two-down run defender whose pass-defense skills are limited. The Saints' movement to get younger and more athletic coupled with his $1.1 million salary make Ruff a candidate for release or renegotiation. Ted Johnson, New England At age 32 and with a history of injuries, he isn't likely to stick around while making $1.7 million in 2005. He still can contribute as a run stopper on first and second downs. Near the end of his career, he might consider a re-done deal. Outside linebacker Derrick Brooks, Tampa Bay He isn't getting any younger, and he already has restructured his contract once, at a 2005 salary figure ($6 million) that might be difficult for the Buccaneers to swallow. Chad Brown, Seattle He still is a decent player at age 35, but his skills are in decline, he can't stay healthy, and he carries a cap number of more than $5 million in 2005. Seattle can't afford that kind of uncertainty. Nate Wayne, Philadelphia Hardly the playmaker the Eagles thought they were getting, he isn't physical against the run and doesn't have a well-defined role in the future of the franchise. Peter Boulware, Baltimore Injuries claimed his entire 2004 season, and he might be starting to fall apart physically. He still can produce as a 3-4 rush linebacker when healthy, but he isn't worth the risk at $6 million. Dexter Coakley, Dallas In a potential overhaul of the defense, the Cowboys likely would get bigger and more physical. Coakley is 32 and due $3.8 million in base salary and bonuses in 2005. Junior Seau, Miami After finishing the year on injured reserve, he might opt to retire. With $4 million due in salary and bonuses in 2005, Seau simply is too expensive a luxury for this team. Willie McGinest, New England He still is a versatile impact player, but $9 million is a lot to pay for a 33-year-old on this team. Coach Bill Belichick likes him, so McGinest could come back with a restructured contract. Kevin Hardy, Cincinnati He came to Cincinnati as a savior at middle linebacker, but he failed there and hasn't looked much better outside. Hardy's agility and range are declining, making his $2.6 million salary a risk not worth taking. Ray Thompson, Arizona Undersized and oft-injured, he makes too much money for a reserve and is an off-field risk. Thompson faces a likely one-year suspension if he violates league rules again. Travian Smith, Oakland A terrific athlete who never has lived up to his potential, he is a backup who will make $2 million in 2005. Knowing he won't get any better, paying him that well makes no sense. Cornerback Samari Rolle, Tennessee Injuries have become a huge concern for this still-solid player. A $5.5 million base salary for 2005 makes him a luxury the Titans can't afford. Patrick Surtain, Miami Surtain has a big cap number, and the Dolphins want to get younger at cornerback. They aren't likely to cut both Surtain and Sam Madison, but they might entertain trade offers. Sam Madison, Miami Though still an excellent cover corner, he is 31 and has an $8 million cap number. The Dolphins' new regime might decide to cut ties before his skills start to erode. Ronde Barber, Tampa Bay Though he is a Pro Bowl player, he might be a product of Tampa Bay's cover-2 scheme. Moreover, he is scheduled to make more than $4 million in each of the next two years. Tyrone Poole, New England After he finished the season on injured reserve, age and durability are significant concerns. He no longer is a shutdown guy, and it's doubtful the Patriots will pay $2.4 million for a No. 2 or No. 3 corner. Mario Edwards, Tampa Bay A talented player who doesn't always play up to his potential. He is due $1.6 million in salary and another $1.6 million in offseason bonus money. The Buccaneers probably aren't willing to pay him that much. Duane Starks, Arizona Injuries have prevented him from living up to his expected role of shutdown corner. A nickel back probably isn't worth the $3.6 million Starks is due in 2005. Artrell Hawkins, Carolina Though he has decent cover skills, he gives up too many big plays and isn't very disciplined. Hawkins' $1.8 million salary figure for 2005 is high for a backup whose contributions are limited. Donnie Abraham, N.Y. Jets He gets by as a starter, but he lacks great cover skills and isn't getting any better at age 31. His 2005 salary of $1.5 million might be too hefty for a cap-challenged club. Aaron Glenn, Houston He still has value at age 33, but his cover skills are in decline. Glenn probably can play another year or two at a relatively high level, but he won't live up to a $4 million annual salary. Juran Bolden, Jacksonville Set to make almost $2 million in base and incentives in 2005, he is a 31-year-old backup who has been a huge disappointment. The Jaguars want younger and faster cover guys. Chad Scott, Pittsburgh He will turn 31 before next season and his body is starting to break down. Pittsburgh is unlikely to pay him the $3.885 million he is scheduled to receive in 2005. Corey Fuller, Baltimore A good team guy, but at 34 his skills are eroding. It's unlikely the speed- and athleticism-conscious Ravens will pay his $1.25 million salary in 2005. Ken Irvin, Minnesota At 33 and having spent most of last season on injured reserve, how much could he have left? The money-conscious Vikings will take a long look at trimming his $1.5 million salary from the books. R.W. McQuarters, Chicago A decent player, but he might be starting to break down and isn't good enough to be earning $3 million-plus in 2005. Chicago has decent young talent at the position and could threaten to cut McQuarters if he doesn't restructure. Safety Shaun Williams, N.Y. Giants He is coming off a major injury and doesn't make as many plays as he did early in his career. New York has a lot of needs and seems unlikely to pay him the $4 million he's slated to receive in 2005. Lance Schulters, Tennessee He has been nicked up and hasn't been the impact player the Titans thought he would be. Schulters' $2.75 million base salary is a real stretch for this team. John Lynch, Denver He has given the defense a tougher identity, but at age 33, Lynch has a lot of wear and tear on his body. The Broncos could go younger or pay $2.5 million for a one-dimensional player. Reggie Tongue, N.Y. Jets He still is a big hitter, but the Jets are looking for defensive backs with better coverage skills. At 31, with a $700,000 base salary and $400,000 bonus due, Tongue is a target for roster trimming. Brian Walker, Detroit An intimidating run stuffer who has limited pass coverage skills, he is 33 and starting to lose what speed he has. His $1.6 million cap figure for 2005 doesn't match what he brings to the table. Pierson Prioleau, Buffalo A relatively unproductive backup, he is due $1.25 million in 2005. The Bills want more speed and athletic ability at the position, and will look for an upgrade. Arturo Freeman, Miami He is a starter, but he doesn't make enough plays to justify his $3 million salary. Freeman is better suited to be a (more moderately priced) No. 3 safety. -------------------- Offense Quarterbacks Steve McNair, Tennessee He is due $7.5 million in 2005 and an astronomical $50 million bonus in 2006 on a backloaded contract. Durability is a big concern, and those numbers will be restrictive for the Titans even if McNair does stay on the field. McNair has said he's willing to restructure his contract, but he hasn't said definitively whether he plans to return next season. Brooks Aaron Brooks, New Orleans Coach Jim Haslett's reprieve in New Orleans might have saved Brooks. He is a great talent who doesn't play with a sense of urgency. The Saints might ask him to redo a deal that will pay him $5.5 million in 2005. Jake Plummer, Denver It isn't a lock the Broncos will pay the $6 million roster bonus he is due March 1. Plummer's salary isn't out of whack, but the organization could go another direction after an up-and-down season. Drew Bledsoe, Buffalo The Bills already have announced they will release Bledsoe and elevate second-year QB J.P. Losman to the starting job. Rich Gannon, Oakland There is almost no chance he will return. He has a huge, $8 million base salary in 2005 and is not a good fit in coach Norv Turner's offense or on this club. Brad Johnson, Tampa Bay Unless he takes a dramatic pay cut, he won't return to a roster that is pretty well set at quarterback. A salary of $6 million in 2005 and $7 million in '06 is outlandish for a 37-year-old third-stringer. Jay Fiedler, Miami Neither Fiedler nor A.J. Feeley appears to be the long-term answer at quarterback for Miami. Fiedler is too pricey (more than $5.7 million in 2005) for a backup, and his biggest supporter (Dave Wannstedt) is gone. Brian Griese, Tampa Bay He carries a $2 million salary figure for 2005, but also is due a $6 million bonus in March. Griese isn't likely to see that money, but he played well enough in 2004 to earn a restructured deal. Rodney Peete, Carolina He gives the coaching staff a level of comfort, but he isn't worth $1 million annually at his age. Peete could renegotiate and return for a year, but the Panthers need to start developing a young backup. Chris Weinke, Carolina At 32, he is no better than a journeyman backup and no longer can be considered a developmental project. It's unlikely Carolina will pay him the $1.2 million he is due in 2005. Fullbacks James Hodgins, Arizona He was expected to be a force in the run game, but it didn't happen. (He finished the season on injured reserve.) Though Hodgins has great size, all he can do is block, limiting his usefulness in Dennis Green's system. Mike Anderson, Denver A severe groin injury hampered him all last season, and he will be a 31-year-old injury risk carrying a $2.16 million base salary in 2005. The Broncos have other options at his position. Running backs Marshall Faulk, St. Louis He is starting to look like a part-time player, with age and durability becoming big concerns. He has a $7 million cap number for 2005, so it might be time for he and the Rams to part company. Jerome Bettis, Pittsburgh He is the comeback story of 2004 and is running like a player five years younger than his 33 years. Turning him loose will be a tough call for this organization, but Bettis is due more than $5 million in 2005. Michael Bennett, Minnesota Though not a candidate to get cut, he very well could be traded. The Vikings are loaded at running back, prefer to build through the draft and could net a fairly high draft choice for him. Tight end Kyle Brady, Jacksonville At age 33, he still is a physical and effective run blocker, but he offers little as a receiver. With more teams using offensive tackles as short-yardage blocking tight ends, can Jacksonville live with Brady's cap number (almost $3 million)? Dwayne Carswell, Denver He has been serviceable, but Denver uses many tight ends, and Carswell hardly is dominant. The Broncos could go younger and cheaper in a committee approach. Jay Riemersma, Pittsburgh He is 32, comes with endless durability questions and isn't the blocking tight end Pittsburgh wants. We can't see the Steelers paying him $1.3 million in 2005. Wide receiver Derrick Mason, Tennessee His name seems to be on this list every year, but he always dodges the bullet. But Mason's $3.2 million base salary and $1.5 million in incentives for 2005 might be too much for the cap-strapped Titans to handle this time. Rod Smith, Denver He could see his skills start to decline soon, and his salary will be in the $5 million range in 2005. But he is Denver's most consistent weapon, and the Broncos don't have a replacement ready. Isaac Bruce, St. Louis St. Louis has good, young depth at receiver, and Bruce's salary over the next four years (from $4 million to $7 million) isn't a drop in the bucket. The Rams might have to let a good player go before he becomes a liability. Kevin Johnson, Baltimore Once a solid No. 1 receiver, he has been no better than a No. 3 for the Ravens, who need an upgrade. His base salary of $1.4 million and potential bonus of over $2 million is too much. Do you renegotiate or cut a 29-year-old backup? Johnson might do the Ravens a favor by opting out of his contract in favor of free agency. Koren Robinson, Seattle His off-field problems and favorable salary make him a strong trade candidate. The Seahawks are turned off by his act and dropped passes. Troy Brown, New England He is the ultimate team guy, but he is 34, his production on offense is in steep decline and his cap number is around $5.7 million. Coach Bill Belichick doesn't play favorites. Muhsin Muhammad, Carolina Carolina almost dumped him a year ago but wisely chose not to. Due a huge $10 million bonus in the offseason, he likely will renegotiate and receive a more cap-friendly deal. Jerome Pathon, New Orleans The Saints aren't known as big spenders, and a $3.25 million salary for a quality No. 3 receiver probably is too much. But he is a tough matchup in the slot, so the team might try to restructure his deal. David Terrell, Chicago The ultimate teaser, he never has lived up to great expectations. He no longer can be considered a developing talent, and the Bears' offense desperately needs a playmaker. Az-Zahir Hakim, Detroit With Charles Rogers and Roy Williams making a lot of money, the position is financially out of whack. Hakim, the No. 3 receiver, has a $4 million cap number in 2005. Derrius Thompson, Miami He has the size and skills but never has played up to expectations. The Dolphins have a new coaching staff, loads of needs and won't want to pay $1.2 million for a No. 3 receiver. Center Jeff Mitchell, Carolina One of the most underrated players in the league, he rarely makes a mistake. The Panthers want to keep him, but his $2 million salary and $1 million bonus are steep. He could be a candidate for renegotiation. Trey Teague, Buffalo The Bills would like to upgrade the position in free agency or the draft. They are not likely to keep Teague, who is scheduled to make a $1.25 million base salary and is due a $1 million bonus in training camp. Jeff Hartings, Pittsburgh He still is a good player, but at age 32 he is starting to slip. With a $4.2 million base salary, he could renegotiate and get another year or two out of his career. Mike Wahle, Green Bay He is due a $5 million salary and $6 million roster bonus in 2005. The Packers likely will try to bring him back at a more cap-friendly cost, but Wahle could be released if he balks. Offensive guard Ruben Brown, Chicago His 2005 salary ($1.265 million) is acceptable, but he has lived on reputation the last few years and the Bears probably want to get younger on the offensive line. Larry Allen, Dallas The Cowboys would like to save some money and get younger at this position. Allen's base salary of $4.5 million in 2005 could lead to him restructuring or testing the open market. Ron Stone, Oakland He had a subpar, injury-marred 2004 season and at 34 is a shell of the player he was a few yeas ago. Due $2.6 million in base salary and incentives in 2005, he isn't likely to return to Oakland. Rex Tucker, Chicago He is tough, but his body has taken a beating. The $2 million Tucker is owed for 2005 is a steep cost for a guy who isn't likely to give you 16 games. Doug Brzezinski, Carolina A journeyman backup who has limited range and athletic ability. The Panthers want to rebuild their offensive line with younger players, and his $1.5 million salary in 2005 is reason enough to look for help elsewhere. Mo Collins, Oakland The Raiders seem committed to Collins in the short term, but his base salary and incentives in 2005 exceed $6 million. The cost is steep, but starting over at quarterback could ruin any progress that has been made. Frank Middleton, Oakland Coming off an injury-marred season and possibly breaking down physically, he is due $3 million in base salary and incentives next season. It's unlikely he will be back. Offensive tackle Chris Samuels, Washington A tremendous talent, he has been an up-and-down performer whose pay is commensurate with a much more consistent player. His 2005 cap number is more than $9 million. Will the team try to renegotiate? Kyle Turley, St. Louis Beyond obvious durability issues, his rift with coach Mike Martz seems irreparable. Add to that equation a $3.65 million base salary in 2005, and Turley is likely to be playing for someone else next year. Jon Runyan, Philadelphia He no longer is a dominant player, and first-round pick Shawn Andrews is being groomed to replace him. With a $5.5 million base salary, he could be let go by the cap-conscious Eagles. Brad Hopkins, Tennessee Tennessee might have to clear out both starting offensive tackles due to salary-cap problems. Hopkins still is a good player, but the Titans probably can't afford his $4.75 million salary for 2005. Matt Lepsis, Denver His move from right tackle to the left side was impressive, but with a base salary of $3.5 million and reachable incentives of $1.5 million he is a renegotiation candidate. Fred Miller, Tennessee He is part of an overpaid offensive tackle tandem, with $9.1 million in base salary and easily reached incentives due him in 2005. That is too costly for a 32-year-old right tackle. Scott Gragg, San Francisco At 33, he has a lot of wear and tear on his body and is starting to slow down. The 49ers have severe salary-cap problems and need to get younger. Dumping his 2005 salary ($3 million) seems a likely part of the solution. L.J. Shelton, Arizona Overrated athletic ability and nagging injuries make him a target in the Cardinals' housecleaning. He was placed on injured reserve during the season, and the coaching staff has no confidence in him. Anthony Clement, Arizona He's getting almost $2.5 million to be a backup. Dennis Green wasn't happy with the play of the offensive line, so big changes are in store. 246221[/snapback] I would be shocked if Michael Strahan was let go. I would be all over that if that happened. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Fake-Fat Sunny Posted February 20, 2005 Share Posted February 20, 2005 The prescence of Trey Teague on this list of possible cuts make me feel like the emphasis is on possible because though cutting him is posible it seems incredibly unlikely for the Bills to do this because: 1. Us local fans have heard JMac and the braintrust really sing his praises as they are particularly impressed with his mental grasp of their gameplan. He certainly is easily cut for a more talented player, but the costs of a more talented player whom the Bills would have to train and get to know makes this hard to do for financial and management reasons. If they cut Teague whom they just resigned last year, then neither fans nor players should believe anything they say or even little they write down. 2. The switch from Bledsoe to JP actually plays to Teague's game. Many fans saw him as underweight and screeched when they saw him get bowled over by bull rushes backing up to set up a statci solid pocket for Bledsoe. Under JP, the Bills are more likely to make use of a moving pocket rather than the straight drop-back by Teague. When the pocket moves left or right the guard will likely have the primary duty or attack on the DT amd the defense will have to watch their sides rather than concentrating on bowling over Teague. In addition, since the QB draw should become an even more prominent part of our attack, the bull rushing DT runs the risk that JP will pick the hole to other side of this rusher and be past him before he knows. The "underweight" Teague will provide the benefit of mobility that is the basis for his bullrush problems. 3. When one looks at OL cap hits and factors in performance, I would put Mike Williams on the possible cut list before Teague. Of the 5 OL positions, Teague is likely to have the fourth highest cap hit. In addition, since we may lose a n LT, Teague's previous expereince at LT makes him an unlikely candidate to be cut even if he is moved out as center. The list is interesting because there are so many people and actually makes things more problematic for Jennings if anything, but overall it is a pretty questionable list in terms of reality. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bill from NYC Posted February 20, 2005 Share Posted February 20, 2005 Thanks for posting that very interesting list. I am very intrigued by the possibility of Hopkins coming to Buffalo as a short term solution if JJ departs (my guess is that he will) or the Shelton deal doesn't happen. Surtain, imo, would give the Bills the best secondary in the NFL. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nanker Posted February 20, 2005 Share Posted February 20, 2005 The prescence of Trey Teague on this list of possible cuts make me feel like the emphasis is on possible because though cutting him is posible it seems incredibly unlikely for the Bills to do this because: 1. Us local fans have heard JMac and the braintrust really sing his praises as they are particularly impressed with his mental grasp of their gameplan. He certainly is easily cut for a more talented player, but the costs of a more talented player whom the Bills would have to train and get to know makes this hard to do for financial and management reasons. If they cut Teague whom they just resigned last year, then neither fans nor players should believe anything they say or even little they write down. 2. The switch from Bledsoe to JP actually plays to Teague's game. Many fans saw him as underweight and screeched when they saw him get bowled over by bull rushes backing up to set up a statci solid pocket for Bledsoe. Under JP, the Bills are more likely to make use of a moving pocket rather than the straight drop-back by Teague. When the pocket moves left or right the guard will likely have the primary duty or attack on the DT amd the defense will have to watch their sides rather than concentrating on bowling over Teague. In addition, since the QB draw should become an even more prominent part of our attack, the bull rushing DT runs the risk that JP will pick the hole to other side of this rusher and be past him before he knows. The "underweight" Teague will provide the benefit of mobility that is the basis for his bullrush problems. 3. When one looks at OL cap hits and factors in performance, I would put Mike Williams on the possible cut list before Teague. Of the 5 OL positions, Teague is likely to have the fourth highest cap hit. In addition, since we may lose a n LT, Teague's previous expereince at LT makes him an unlikely candidate to be cut even if he is moved out as center. The list is interesting because there are so many people and actually makes things more problematic for Jennings if anything, but overall it is a pretty questionable list in terms of reality. 246354[/snapback] I agree. Teague would make a fine backup Center. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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