10 Really Tough MLB Contracts in 2020

Michael GinnittiOctober 13, 2019

For most MLB teams the calendar has flipped to 2020, so we'll begin to do the same, starting with a look at 10 contracts that aren't exactly ideal for their respective teams. For most of these players, age and/or injuries have hampered productivity, while a few others (Chris Davis, Wil Myers) simply can't seem to regain their previous greatness.

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 Player2020 Cash SalaryThoughts
David Price (SP, BOS) $32,000,000 After 9 straight years with an ERA below 4, Price’s posted 7 wins, 128 Ks, and a 4.28 ERA in 2019. The 34-year-old is signed at $32M a year thru 2022.
Miguel Cabrera (1B, DET) $30,000,000 The once annual MVP candidate has fallen off mightily over the past three seasons. He finished 2019 with 21 doubles, 12 HRs, 59 RBIs and a .283/.347/.398 split. Good, but certainly not great numbers. The 36-year-old is due $124M over the next 4 seasons ($30M, $30M, $32M, $32M).
Yoenis Cespedes (OF, NYM) $29,500,000 Cespedes has found himself on the Injured List each of the first three years of his 4 year contract in New York (including missing all of 2019). He’s missed a total of 367 games over the past three seasons. While insurance is likely covering a portion of his paychecks from the Mets, it will be interesting to keep an eye on this situation heading into the winter, as the Mets may pursue a rare “void” of his 2020 salary, or a negotiated buyout with the now 34-year-old should they feel he will be unable to play again.
Jordan Zimmerman (SP, DET) $25,000,000 Zimmerman will enter the final year of his $110M contract with Detroit, on the heels of a 1-13 season with a 6.91 ERA. He’s averaging a 5.80 ERA and 0 WAR over the past three seasons, making it difficult for Detroit to swallow another $25M salary next season.
Wil Myers (OF, SD) $20,000,000 Myers appeared to be on an upward path with gradual increase in production over 2016-2018, but his production dipped in 2019. While 22 doubles, 18 HRs, 53 RBIs and a .740 OPS is fine, San Diego will need more now that his contract jumps to $20M for the next 3 years. Myers name will likely be thrown around in trade talks this winter, though it stands to reason the Padres will have to retain some of this salary to get a move done.
Buster Posey (C, SF) $21,400,000 Injuries are inevitable for a productive hitting catcher, and it appears Posey’s at a point of no return in his career. The 32-year-old posted 24 doubles, 7 HRs, 38 RBIs, and a .257 average across 114 games. He’s due $43M over the next two seasons and carries an unlikely club option in 2022.
Wei-Yin Chen (P, MIA) $22,000,000 The Marlins uncharacteristically signed Chen to a 5 year, $80 million free agent contract back in 2016. It’s been a rollercoaster ride ever since, culminating with a move to the bullpen in 2019. Miami will certainly be looking to shop the 34-year-old this winter, likely willing to eat much of his salary in order to move on.
Jacoby Ellsbury (OF, NYY) $21,142,857 The Yankees are one year away from being done with this godforsaken contract. Ellsbury has missed 448 games over the past five seasons, and while he might be healthy enough to return in 2020, will have an impossible time finding a spot in the Yankees saturated outfield. Including a $5M buyout on a 2021 club option, Ellsbury will reel in another $26M over the next 12 months, bringing his career earnings north of $175M.
Chris Davis (1B, BAL) $17,000,000 The Chris Davis experiment hit peak bad in early 2019 after an ugly 0-54 hit streak, and a chorus of boos from Baltimore fans with absolutely no expectations this decade. He’s averaging 10 doubles, 14 HRs, 40 RBIs, and a .170 average over the past two seasons, making the $51M he’s owed through 2022 a disaster of a situation. Baltimore may simply outright release Davis this winter to clear a roster spot, and save both sides from another tumultuous on-field experience.
Johnny Cueto (SP, SF) $21,000,000 Cueto’s been bitten by the injury bug the past two seasons, starting just 13 games since 2017, including just 4 last year. With two years remaining on his deal (plus a club option in 2022), there’s time for a healthy Cueto to turn things around, but for now this contract swings in the direction of a bust. He’s guaranteed $47M through 2022.

The Financial Future of Patrick Mahomes

Michael GinnittiOctober 11, 2019

Ringer NFL guru Danny Heifetz joins Mike Ginnitti for an in-depth discussion on the financial future of Patrick Mahomes, the Kansas City Chiefs, & NFL contracts in general.

 

Where NFL Starters Were Drafted

Michael GinnittiSeptember 11, 2019

A percentage based look at the how the current NFL starting lineups came into the league positionally. For matters of this piece (and the depth charts we track on Spotrac), a starting lineup consists of: QB (1), RB (2), WR (4), TE (2), OT (2), OG (2), OC (1), CB (2), S (2), K (1), P (1), LS (1). Defensive Lines and Linebackers are selected based on 3-4/4-3 schemes and vary by team.

Related: NFL Financial Depth Charts on Spotrac

 

Notable Notes

  • 62.5% of current starting QBs were selected in the first round, by far the largest percentage of position to round in the game. Ryan Fitzpatrick (MIA) was a 7th round selection, while Case Keenum (WAS) went undrafted.
  • The running back is quickly becoming a middle round acqusition, as more and more teams find value in rounds 2-4 on an annual basis. A few teams (Seattle, Christopher Carson, 7th round) (San Francisco, Matt Breida, UDFA) (Chargers, Austin Ekeler, UDFA) are getting incredible bang for their buck.
  • Across a pool of 128 WRs (4 per team), 24% were undrafted free agents. However, MOST of those players are a WR3/WR4 on their respective team currently, with the exception of Tyrell Williams (OAK), Adam Thielen (MIN), Robby Anderson (NYJ).
  • Tight Ends offer maybe the most balanced acquisition resume, with fairly equal draws across the first three rounds. Notable late round studs include George Kittle (SF, 5th), Delanie Walker (TEN, 6th), Cameron Brate (TB, UDFA)
  • 15 of the current starting left tackles were drafted in the first round. While recently extended Dallas Right Tackle La'el Collins was a UDFA back in 2015, as was future Hall of Famer Jason Peters (PHI). Among guards, Jacksonville made UDFA Andrew Norwell one of the highest paid in history 18 months ago, while 7th round pick Austin Reiter just took over the reigns from Mitch Morse as Patrick Mahomes' center in Kansas City.
  • 64% of the starting defensive tackles in football were selected in the first three rounds, while recently extended Damon Harrison (DET) went undrafted back in 2012.
  • 70% of the starting defensive ends in football were selected in the first three rounds, but the fourth rounders might be the best bang for buck right now (Everson Griffen, Trey Flowers, DaQuan Jones). Michael Bennett, now in New England, remains the most potent UDFA at this position group.
  • There's been a bit of a recent shift in how linebackers have been selected, with many teams placing a premium on grabbing a versatie middle man higher than ever. The second round has been loaded with talent of late (Deion Jones, Myles Jack, Bobby Wagner, Eric Kendricks).
  • While 61% of the starting CBs came out of the first two rounds, a good portion (notably slot defenders) came into the league undrafted, including A.J. Bouye, Bryce Callahan, Malcolm Butler, Chris Harris, & Kenny Moore.
  • Teams have been finding safety production fairly evenly across the first four rounds, while a few notables Jordan Poyer (BUF, 7th) & Tony Jefferson (BAL, UDFA) were found much later in the game.
  • There's only one special teamer in the league who was selected in the first three rounds of the draft (Dustin Colquitt, P, KC). 62 of the 96 starters went UDFA, and that trend won't be changing anytime soon.
 1234567UDFA
QB 62.5% 12.5% 6.3% 6.3% 0.0% 6.3% 3.1% 3.1%
RB 15.6% 18.8% 14.1% 18.8% 9.4% 1.6% 3.1% 18.8%
WR 15.6% 21.9% 10.9% 10.2% 7.0% 5.5% 4.7% 24.2%
TE 15.6% 15.6% 17.2% 12.5% 10.9% 6.3% 4.7% 17.2%
OT 39.1% 15.6% 4.7% 7.8% 6.3% 1.6% 7.8% 17.2%
OG 21.9% 14.1% 29.7% 7.8% 1.6% 6.3% 4.7% 14.1%
OC 18.8% 25.0% 3.1% 9.4% 9.4% 21.9% 6.3% 6.3%
DT 27.8% 16.7% 20.4% 7.4% 7.4% 1.9% 5.6% 13.0%
DE 37.7% 14.8% 18.0% 19.7% 3.3% 1.6% 0.0% 4.9%
OLB 28.6% 12.5% 16.1% 12.5% 10.7% 1.8% 3.6% 14.3%
ILB 17.1% 24.4% 7.3% 12.2% 7.3% 9.8% 2.4% 19.5%
CB 37.5% 23.4% 9.4% 3.1% 4.7% 3.1% 1.6% 17.2%
S 25.0% 18.8% 17.2% 10.9% 7.8% 4.7% 1.6% 14.1%
K 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 3.1% 15.6% 9.4% 9.4% 62.5%
P 0.0% 0.0% 3.1% 3.1% 21.9% 12.5% 9.4% 50.0%
LS 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 3.1% 3.1% 3.1% 9.4% 81.3%

2019 NFL Positional Cap Spending

Michael GinnittiSeptember 08, 2019

As per usual, we kickoff the NFL season with a snapshot look at how each NFL team is allocated their salary cap money positionally, including a few notable thoughts going forward. Please note that these numbers reflect cap dollars being allocated to each team's current 53-man roster. On many of our views, we offer a filter to view spending data based on Full Roster, Active Roster, or Starters. These numbers reflect the "Active Roster".
Related: Positional NFL Spending on Spotrac

 

Notable Notes

  • A slew of signings, acqusitions, and high draft picks have the Browns initial 53-man roster up to $184M, the most in football, and $80M more than the "tanking" Dolphins. The Vikings & Rams, both of whom have extended a handful of their own players in recent months, find themselves 2 & 3 to start the 2019 campaign.
  • The Cowboys, Ravens, & Chiefs carry the lowest financial allocations to the QB position, despite top of the league starters. The Lions, Vikings, & Giants headline the most QB dollars in 2019, yet all could be in jeopardy of missing the postseason
  • The devaluation of the individual running back continues, but the Patriots have gone all-in on paying an arsenal of backs "average" salaries to share the role. They lead the league in RB spending by more than $1.5M.Meanwhile the Chargers, sans Melvin Gordon, bring up the rear at just $2.6M, but should see strong production from an Ekeler/Jackson duo.
  • Acquiring Odell Beckham Jr. to go with an already signed Jarvis Landry equals the highest WR cap number in the league, by more than $5M. An Antonio Brown-less Steelers now have just $7.5M spent into their 6 WRs, while an Odell-less Giants have just $8.3M spent into their 6 wideouts.
  • The Patriots have owned the TE spending title for years, but the loss of Gronkowski drops them to 31st in the league for 2019. A Jordan Reed/Vernon Davis combo has the Redskins atop this list, with Jimmy Graham's expensive salary helping the Packers fall into 2nd here.
  • Plenty of teams restructured their offensive line this offseason, but the Cowboys' didn't need to budge. A new contract for La'el Collins bumps Dallas' overall OL spending to $51.8M, almost $8M more than the 2nd place Jets. Meanwhile, the Tunsil-less Dolphins, Bears, & Patriots bring up the rear.
  • The 49ers have spent two straight drafts bolstering their defense, and Nick Bosa's healthy rookie contract pushes SF to the top of the DL spending list. Much the same can be said for the Bills, who find themselves second here, while the Giants, Dolphins, and Packers round out the rear.
  • Earl Thomas' outstanding free agent deal bolsters the Ravens' secondary spending up to a league leading $53M, while his old Seahawks team falls to 30th in the league as the try to rebuild the defense on the fly. Recent deals for Xavien Howard & Reshad Jones have the Dolphins ranked second in spending here, which stands out amongst a team breaking down much of their roster for a full redo.
  • The Ravens have been paying Justin Tucker well for years (deservedly so), and as such sit atop the Special Team spending list. While the Chargers - who have had their share of kicking issues - find themselves dead last here.
 QBRB/FBWRTEOLDLLBDBS/TTOTAL
ARZ $8.3M $11.1M $18.5M $3.4M $30.2M $10.3M $38.9M $12.1M $3.7M $136.3M
ATL $17.2M $10.2M $25.4M $4.9M $36.3M $38.9M $9.0M $25.9M $5.8M $173.6M
BAL $4.2M $5.2M $13.6M $6.7M $24.2M $19.5M $10.4M $53.1M $9.9M $146.9M
BUF $6.6M $6.2M $20.1M $9.7M $29.4M $45.8M $10.4M $20.2M $6.4M $154.8M
CAR $24.4M $6.4M $9.4M $8.5M $20.7M $30.3M $38.7M $16.0M $3.1M $157.5M
CHI $13.9M $4.1M $28.2M $13.0M $18.8M $17.9M $34.9M $33.9M $3.0M $167.7M
CIN $17.4M $7.9M $29.4M $10.7M $28.1M $32.4M $8.4M $25.3M $5.7M $165.3M
CLE $11.8M $2.7M $35.0M $6.3M $34.1M $40.9M $15.0M $35.8M $1.9M $183.6M
DAL $2.8M $9.2M $21.3M $5.6M $51.8M $31.5M $14.7M $16.7M $3.6M $157.2M
DEN $5.5M $3.1M $16.8M $6.5M $25.4M $18.6M $40.0M $29.7M $5.6M $151.3M
DET $30.6M $4.0M $16.3M $6.7M $26.8M $23.3M $15.2M $34.4M $6.4M $163.7M
GB $27.1M $2.7M $16.3M $15.3M $43.4M $9.2M $22.5M $23.5M $6.1M $166.1M
HOU $6.8M $5.9M $26.5M $3.6M $22.2M $24.4M $25.8M $37.3M $4.6M $157.0M
IND $11.5M $2.9M $30.1M $13.4M $28.5M $37.3M $6.4M $29.9M $6.9M $166.8M
JAX $12.5M $9.2M $14.0M $4.7M $30.6M $37.2M $7.6M $38.1M $3.2M $157.0M
KC $5.1M $7.2M $24.8M $12.0M $37.4M $19.8M $15.8M $19.4M $5.4M $147.0M
LAC $27.1M $2.6M $22.8M $6.0M $20.0M $38.7M $14.0M $18.9M $1.6M $151.7M
LAR $9.9M $12.1M $27.2M $4.4M $30.9M $30.4M $22.2M $34.9M $6.0M $178.0M
MIA $6.8M $5.0M $17.5M $3.3M $10.5M $8.7M $4.5M $46.5M $1.8M $104.6M
MIN $29.7M $4.4M $22.4M $5.7M $23.1M $37.8M $13.2M $42.2M $2.2M $180.7M
NE $22.2M $13.8M $17.5M $1.7M $19.7M $16.4M $23.7M $45.9M $4.6M $165.4M
NO $26.6M $4.8M $12.2M $5.9M $43.8M $23.4M $18.5M $21.7M $6.8M $163.7M
NYG $29.0M $9.3M $8.3M $10.0M $26.1M $6.2M $24.6M $27.1M $2.1M $142.5M
NYJ $8.9M $11.0M $15.9M $2.8M $44.0M $33.9M $19.7M $32.3M $2.0M $170.5M
OAK $25.3M $6.6M $14.6M $3.0M $40.5M $15.5M $8.6M $26.5M $1.6M $142.2M
PHI $13.5M $5.0M $29.0M $8.2M $37.9M $28.2M $10.4M $24.9M $1.9M $159.0M
PIT $27.9M $3.8M $7.5M $8.4M $36.7M $30.6M $26.6M $25.9M $6.4M $173.9M
SEA $26.9M $5.5M $12.1M $1.6M $31.7M $24.7M $25.8M $12.7M $4.0M $145.0M
SF $20.9M $12.1M $9.5M $2.5M $34.9M $46.0M $15.2M $26.4M $5.2M $172.6M
TB $23.8M $4.9M $21.9M $11.2M $43.3M $21.1M $26.8M $12.5M $3.7M $169.2M
TEN $22.8M $8.4M $15.8M $7.9M $22.2M $25.0M $19.0M $37.7M $5.0M $163.8M
WAS $9.5M $7.4M $9.6M $17.1M $27.6M $10.9M $21.3M $27.8M $6.2M $137.5M
AVG $16.8M $6.7M $19.0M $7.2M $30.6M $26.1M $19.0M $28.6M $4.4M $158.5M

2019-20 NFL Contractual QB Tiers

Michael GinnittiAugust 19, 2019

As the 2019 NFL regular season approaches, it's a good time to assess the Quarterbacks, arguably the most important position in all of sports these days. We've broken out the 32 projected starting quarterbacks for 2019 into "contractual tiers" based on where they currently fall within their own contract. These six tiers range from Ineligible for Extension all the way to "Locked In", with a a few variances in between. Keep the conversation going @spotrac

 

Related Links:

 

Contractual Quarterback Tiers

Ineligible for Extension

The Browns, Bills, Cardinals, Jets & Ravens will be starting a QB in 2019 who aren't yet eligible for a contract extension. Mayfield, Allen, Darnold, & Jackson won't become as such until after the 2020 season, while Kyler Murray becomes extension-eligible after 2021.

TEAMPLAYERAGETYPESTATUS
Browns Baker Mayfield 24 Rookie Year 2 of 5
Bills Josh Allen 23 Rookie Year 2 of 5
Jets Sam Darnold 22 Rookie Year 2 of 5
Ravens Lamar Jackson 22 Rookie Year 2 of 5
Cardinals Kyler Murray 22 Rookie Year 1 of 5

 

Playing for Extension-Eligibility

This elite group becomes extension eligible after the 2019 season, led by Mahomes - who could become the NFL's first $40M per year man. Watson enters the year with a nice round $30M valuation, slightly tempered because of time missed due to injury. While Trubisky's underwhelming production to date keeps him valued at around $26M. Both Watson & Trubisky have a chance to approach Carson Wentz' $32M mark with a strong 2019 campaign.

TEAMPLAYERAGETYPESTATUS
Chiefs Patrick Mahomes 23 Rookie Year 3 of 5
Texans Deshaun Watson 23 Rookie Year 3 of 5
Bears Mitchell Trubisky 24 Rookie Year 3 of 5

 

In "Rookie Contract Limbo"

Goff finds himself in a bit of a weird spot heading into 2019. With Carson Wentz already paid, & Dak Prescott soon to follow, Goff will be the only viable QB from the 2016 draft without an extension. The Rams exercised his 5th-year option for 2020 ($22.7M), but it doesn't fully guarantee until March 18th.

TEAMPLAYERAGETYPESTATUS
Rams Jared Goff 24 Rookie Year 4 of 5

 

Contract Questions after 2019

This group of 9 enters 2019 with at least some contractual doubt for the immediate future. Stafford & Cousins would likely need to be traded to be moved on from ($26M, $31M of 2020 dead cap respectively), while the rest have significant cap savings should they be traded or released after the upcoming season. Newton & Luck are likely only on the bubble because of injury history, though Cam will be entering a contract year in 2020.

TEAMPLAYERAGETYPESTATUS2020 DEAD CAP
Vikings Kirk Cousins 30 Veteran Year 2 of 3 $31,000,000
($1M if traded)
Lions Matthew Stafford 31 Veteran Year 3 of 6 $26,000,000
($20M if traded)
Colts Andrew Luck 29 Veteran Year 4 of 6 $6,400,000
Raiders Derek Carr 28 Veteran Year 3 of 6 $5,000,000
49ers Jimmy Garoppolo 27 Veteran Year 2 of 5 $4,200,000
Panthers Cam Newton 30 Veteran Year 5 of 6 $2,000,000
Dolphins Ryan Fitzpatrick 36 Veteran Year 1 of 2 $1,500,000
Broncos Joe Flacco 34 Veteran Year 4 of 6 $0
Bengals Andy Dalton 31 Veteran Year 6 of 7 $0

 

Playing for Extension-Eligibility

For now, there are 8 starting QBs set to enter 2019 on an expiring contract. All signs point to Dak Prescott signing a new deal in the coming days/weeks, & it stands to reason that Philip Rivers might be inline for a new contract as well (though reports currently say otherwise). Marcus Mariota might not even win the starting gig in Tennessee, as Ryan Tannehill has quickly garnered attention, and Case Keenum seems just a placeholder for a few weeks until the Redskins feel comfortable enough to hand the reigns over to Dwayne Haskins. The same currently can't be said for Eli Manning, as the Giants continue to press that Eli will get the bulk, if not all, of the 2019 snaps in New York, giving Daniel Jones his "Mahomes year" on the bench.

TEAMPLAYERAGETYPESTATUS
Cowboys Dak Prescott 26 Rookie Year 4 of 4
Buccaneers Jameis Winston 25 Rookie Year 5 of 5
Titans Marcus Mariota 25 Rookie Year 5 of 5
Giants Eli Manning 38 Veteran Year 5 of 5
Chargers Philip Rivers 37 Veteran Year 5 of 5
Saints Drew Brees 40 Veteran Year 2 of 2
Patriots Tom Brady 42 Veteran Year 1 of 1
Redskins Case Keenum 31 Veteran Year 1 of 1

 

Locked IN

The 6 QBs listed here have recently signed extensions and are currently "locked-in" based on cap vs. dead cap structure, with the exception of Ben Roethisberger. Big Ben carries a $33.5M cap figure in 2020 and just $25M of dead cap currently. He holds a $12.5M roster bonus due on March 20th, so technically speaking Pittsburgh could get out before that, clearing $8.5M of cap space. We'll keep him here until further notice though.

TEAMPLAYERAGETYPESTATUS2020 DEAD CAP
Packers Aaron Rodgers 35 Veteran Year 2 of 6 $53,700,000
Seahawks Russell Wilson 30 Veteran Year 1 of 5 $52,000,000
Steelers Ben Roethlisberger 37 Veteran Year 1 of 3 $25,000,000
Falcons Matt Ryan 34 Veteran Year 2 of 6 $63,400,000
Jaguars Nick Foles 30 Veteran Year 1 of 4 $33,875,000
Eagles Carson Wentz 26 Veteran Year 1 of 6 $62,477,152

 

Related Links:

10 NFL Summer Extension Candidates

Michael GinnittiAugust 11, 2019

Julio Jones, WR, Falcons

Julio Jones is 30, but his production is still nothing short of elite. With 4 straight 90+ grades from Pro Football Focus, including a 1,600 yard, 8 TD season in 2018, the sky should be the limit in terms of dollars for a new contract. After an ugly holdout last summer, Jones accepted a slight restructure (cash only) prior to the 2018 season, with the promise that a more formidable extension would be coming prior to 2019. We’re just 2 weeks from training camp now, and no contract of any sort has been agreed to.

30-year-old WRs don’t usually break the bank, but Jones has the benefit of using Antonio Brown’s outstanding deal in Oakland to start from. The two major statistical deficiencies for Jones have been a lack of scoring, and a ton of drops. But neither should play a huge role in negotiating down an annual number going forward. Jones is currently slated to earn $21M over the next two seasons, but that will need to push more toward the $35M mark on his new contract, nearly all of that fully guaranteed.

Contract Projection: 3 years, $51.8M ($17.2M AAV), $33M guaranteed at signing

 

Tom Brady, QB, Patriots

The last time Tom Brady put his pen to a legitimate extension was in 2016, when he signed a 2 year, $41M new money extension that carried out over 4 years (he then restructured last offseason to pull some cash forward). If we’re evaluating Brady like we do every other player in our system, he’s produced to a $34.7M AAV over the past two seasons - but that’s not how he operates. Brady’s $20.5M AAV back in 2016 represented 13.2% of the league cap at the time. If we use this as the framework for a current deal, we’re talking about a contract just shy of $25M per year in 2019, which feels about right for the almost 42-year-old.

Contract Projection: 2 years, $50M, $35M fully guaranteed at signing

 

A.J. Green, WR, Bengals

I know the natural discussion will be to place Green in the same conversation as Antonio Brown, Julio Jones, Michael Thomas contracts, but from a mathematical standpoint, it’s really hard to get him there. The soon to be 31-year-old has missed 13 games over the past 3 seasons, so his numbers are a shell of what they used to be. Even when projecting out his per-game stats to a full 16-game season, Green’s numbers fall well short of the current elite WR contracts in the league.

His closets comparable currently is Bucs WR Mike Evans, who signed a 5 year, $82.5M extension last March, at age 25. Green is coming off of a contract that averaged $16M per year (4 years, $60M), and it stands to reason he won’t be garnering much of an increase on that number with his new deal.

Contract Projection: 3 years, $50M, $30M guaranteed at signing

 

Amari Cooper, WR, Cowboys

It’s been awhile since we’ve heard buzz out of Dallas about the forthcoming extensions for Prescott, Cooper, or Elliott. Many assumed Dak’s deal would be done by now, with Cooper’s on the cusp heading into training camp. But it’s also very possible the Amari’s camp is holding tight on agreeing to anything until the likes of Michael Thomas, Julio Jones, and even Beckham Jr. are granted new contracts first. Cooper’s set to earn a decent $13.924M salary on his 5th-year option in 2019, and could have a $17M franchise tag awaiting him in 2020 depending on how things pan out. That $31M over the next two years is a strong baseline for any type of multi-year contract being negotiated this summer. OBJ & Brandin Cooks each reeled in $38.4M over the first two years of their contract, a figure Michael Thomas should surpass in the coming weeks. If Amari waits (even into the 2019 season), he could be playing himself into a $40M over two seasons contract.

Contract Projection: 5 years, $90M ($18M AAV), $40M guaranteed at signing

 

Jalen Ramsey, CB, Jaguars

Ramsey’s had a lot to say off the field over his first three seasons, but he’ll soon let his contract do the talking. The 24-year-old has two years remaining on his rookie contract, and has publicly claimed he won’t be receiving an extension from the Jaguars this summer. But whenever it happens (assuming the Jaguars want to keep him), he’ll be inline to reset the cornerback market financially. Xavien Howard’s $15.05M AAV currently holds the top average pay belt, while Trumaine Johnson’s recent $34M over 2 years, $45M over three appears to be the benchmark for the next wave of CB contracts.

Contract Projection: 5 years, $80M ($16M AAV), $38M guaranteed at signing

 

Kevin Byard, S, Titans

It’s safe to say the soon to be 26-year-old has surpassed expectations in his first three seasons in Tennessee. Set to enter a contract year in 2019, there’s been little said publicly about a new deal for Byard this summer, but it’s certainly a possibility. He’s slated to earn just over $2M in 2019, and could have a near $12M franchise tag awaiting him in 2020. In terms of a multi-year outlook, Byard also has the benefit of working on top of an explosion of safety money this past free agency. Earl Thomas, Landon Collins, & Tyrann Mathieu completely reset a market that now includes $14M per year contracts, $32M over the first two years, and $26M+ guaranteed at signing - all realistic numbers for Byard going forward.

Contract Projection: 5 years, $70M ($14M AAV), $25M guaranteed at signing

 

Deion Jones, LB, Falcons

The Falcons likely had a quick path to extending Jones this offseason, until C.J. Mosley broke the inside linebacker market this free agency (5 years, $85M, $43M fully guaranteed). With deals for WR Julio Jones, TE Austin Hooper, & DT Grady Jarrett also in the docket, Deion’s contract may be on hold at this point, and it’s possible he walks into free agency next March.

Jones is only 24, but is also recovering from a broken foot suffered in 2018, so there’s a bit of contention in terms of negotiation this summer. He’s still been one of the best middle linebackers in all of football over the past 2 1/2 seasons, and is slated to earn just $1M in 2019, the final year of his rookie contract. With Seahawks LB Bobby Wagner in a very similar position this summer, it’s possible the Falcons feel they won’t be able to meet Jones’ demands, and much like the Ravens were forced to do with Mosley, will see him eventually walk.

Contract Projection: 5 years, $65M ($13M AAV), $33M guaranteed at signing

 

Melvin Gordon, RB, Chargers

Gordon’s been a solid weapon for the Chargers since being #15 overall back in 2015, though he has been banged up nearly every season to date. He’ll enter 2019 on a $5.6M 5th-year option, and has all but said that he would rather be traded then play out this season on his current deal.

Gordon doesn’t have the receiving resume that some of the top-paid RBs in the game currently do, so his valuation falls a bit short of upper-echelon money, but he’ll still find plenty of offers should he be allowed to hit the open market. It should also be noted that his previous two years compare almost identically to Todd Gurley’s 2016-2017 campaigns, leading up to his major payday with the Rams, so there’s room for Gordon’s camp to push for a contract in the $14M range. But our math says otherwise for now…

Contract Projection: 4 years, $54M ($13.5M AAV), $27M fully guaranteed at signing

 

Bobby Wagner, LB, Seahawks

Wagner’s been one of the most important pieces of Seattle’s puzzle over the past 7 seasons, and the 29-year-old should be rewarded handsomely for it. Entering a contract year in 2019 that’s set to pay $11.5M cash, Wagner should benefit from CJ Mosley’s explosive contract with the Jets, and a possible deal for Faclons’ ILB Deion Jones as well. Consistently graded one of the best linebackers in the game according to PFF, Wagner might be staring down a near $17M franchise tag in 2020 - a move that would likely not be taken well by his camp, but it’s also a pretty strong number to work with for a multi-year contract. With only Mosley’s contract near this number, it’s impossible to mathematically value Wagner near $17M a year (our algorithm brings him in just over $14M currently), but it’s still a likely price point.

Contract Projection: 4 years, $72M ($18M AAV), $40M fully guaranteed at signing

 

Michael Thomas, WR, Saints

Thomas has filled up the stat boards over the past three seasons, posting 321 catches, 3,800 yards, and 23 TDs, while averaging almost 12 yards per catch. He’s a shoe-in to reset the WR market at just 26 years old, but there are some potential roadblocks in the process. For starters, the Saints have VERY little cap space to work with in 2019. Next, Drew Brees’ contract expires after 2019, and his future is very much in question. Does Michael Thomas even want to remain with a Brees-less Saints going forward?

We’ll table those for purposes of this article and assume it’s about a new deal right now. Thomas is the first WR with a legitimate chance to see $100M attached to his contract, with $45M fully guaranteed, and $60M through 3 years.

Contract Projection: 5 years, $100M ($20M AAV), $45M fully guaranteed at signing

MLB Trade Deadline Candidates

Michael GinnittiJuly 29, 2019

With the 2019 MLB Trade Deadline less than 48 hours away, we'll take a look at a few names who remain on the hot stove, including the money remaining on their 2019 salary, and the stability & status of their current contract.

Related Links:

 

Noah Syndergaard (SP, 26, NYM)

Syndergaard’s name has been in trade talks for about a year now, and could have a role in what has been a career-worst season thus far (7-5 record, 4.33 ERA, 1.26 WHIP). The 26-year-old is under team control through 2021, and his final two arbitration salaries will rise significantly from a current $6M price tag. Noah has around $2M remaining on his 2019 salary, and should bring back a huge haul for the Mets, whether he’s moved this week, or after the season.

 

Zack Wheeler (SP, 29, NYM)

Wheeler’s 2019 hasn’t exactly matched his career 2018 production (3.31 ERA, 1.1 WHIP), but the pending free agent has shown enough over the past 2+ seasons to prove a worthy addition to any contender this fall. Like teammate Syndergaard, Wheeler has around $2M left on his 2019 salary, but won’t bring back near the return as a rental acquisition.

 

Trevor Bauer (SP, 28, CLE)

Bauer’s deep ball into the centerfield stands would certainly be an interesting way to potentially end his Indians career, but it seems more likely he sticks with Cleveland through 2019 and is moved after the season. Bauer has one more arbitration-eligible season in 2020, and has gone on the record to say he would prefer to sign 1-year deals throughout his career, though that certainly remains to be seen. The 28-year-old has $4.3M remaining on his 2019 salary heading into the deadline, and his 2020 salary likely comes in at around $20M.

 

Matt Boyd (SP, 28, DET)

The Tigers were quietly expected to take a small step forward in 2019, but their 30-71 record says otherwise thus far. In light of this, it’s possible they move their most valuable trade piece in Boyd who carries around $870,000 remaining in 2019, then THREE more years of arbitration control. Detroit could cash in a big return from a strong farm system like Minnesota or the Yankees have, but it remains to be seen if anyone will dive this deep in the next 48 hours.

 

Shane Greene (RP, 30, DET)

Greene would have a heck of a lot more than 22 saves if the Tigers had more than 30 wins to boot in 2019. The 30-year-old is holding a 1.22 ERA & 0.865 WHIP in 37 appearances and likely has multiple suitors from the contenders. He holds about $1.3M remaining on his 2019 salary and is arbitration eligible for the last time in 2020.

 

Madison Bumgarner (SP, 29, SF)

Will they or won’t they? That’s the question MANY teams are asking about the Giants in the next 2 days, with names like Kevin Pillar, Drew Pomeranz, & Will Smith also rumored to have interest. The bottom line here is, even if the Giants think they have a chance to compete in 2019, trading Bumgarner might be the right business move. The 29-year-old is on an expiring contract, and may be reluctant to re-sign with a Giants organization that could be ripping it down and starting over soon. Mad-Bum has around $4M left on his 2019 salary.

 

Robbie Ray (SP, 27, ARI)

Ray is the more affordable pitching option in Arizona (Greinke), but it remains to be seen if the D-Backs will be offered anything worth considering in the final days. Ray is under control through 2020, and has a little more than $2M left on his 2019 salary.

 

Mike Minor (SP, 31, TEX)

Minor has around $3.1M remaining on his 2019 salary, and holds a $9.5M salary in 2020 as well, so a move for him isn’t just about winning now. Teams like the Yankees or Phillies seem to make sense where both 2019 & 2020 are legitimate championship options. It’s possible Texas kicks in cash to make this move more attractive.

 

The Best of the Rest

 PosTeamAge2019 RemainingFree Agent
Yasiel Puig  OF CIN 28 $3.2M 2020
Jonathan Villar 2B BAL 28 $1.6M 2021
Tanner Roark  SP CIN 32 $3.33M 2020
Kirby Yates  RP SD 32 $1.02M 2021
Will Smith  RP SF 30 $1.4M 2020
Ian Happ  OF CHC 24 $200k 2024
Clint Frazier OF NYY 24 $187k 2024
Jose Abreu 1B CHW 32 $5.3M 2020
Wilson Ramos  C NYM 31 $2.08M 2022
Ken Giles RP TOR 28 $2.1M 2021
Todd Frazier  3B NYM 33 $3M 2020
Billy Hamilton OF KC 28 $1.4M 2020
Whit Merrifield 2B KC 30 $333k 2023

Trade Destinations & Packages for Russell Westbrook

Michael GinnittiJuly 09, 2019

With the shocking acquisition of Paul George in addition to Kawhi Leonard, the Los Angeles Clippers may have intentionally forced Oklahoma City Thunder’s GM Sam Presti to begin his re-building process, a move he knew was going to become necessary in the very near future. The Thunder have paid out nearly $100M of luxury tax fines over the past two seasons because of their gaudy cap, and with George now out of the picture, will certainly be looking to get out from under the luxury tax threshold in 2019-20.

Currently, OKC needs to shed about $2.5M more to clear themselves, and they have until the end of the season to do so. However, all signs point to a Russell Westbrook trade being the Thunder’s next move, both from a financial and basketball point of view. We’ll dive into a few potential scenarios…

Related:

 

The Heat Get a Second Star for Jimmy Butler

Russell Westbrook for Goran Dragic, Justise Winslow, Tyler Herro, & a high pick

While this move only clears $3M of cap space for OKC in 2019-20, it does enough to get them under the tax cap, while also adding a few legitimate pieces to their puzzle. Dragic brings a nice veteran presence to pair with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and his expiring contract can be a trade piece in January. Winslow brings over 2 years + a club option while also filling a small forward need on the OKC roster currently. Herro, the #13 overall pick this May from Kentucky, can be the incumbent replacement for Andre Roberson, who’s on an expiring contract in 2019-20. Meanwhile Pat Riley gets the second star he’s been clamoring for to pair with Jimmy Butler, bringing Miami to near contention status in a weakened Eastern Conference.

 

The Toronto Raptors swap Kyle Lowry for Westbrook, straight up

Russell Westbrook for Kyle Lowry

In a normal setting, Lowry’s expiring contract for four years remaining on Westbrook would require a load of draft picks attached to it to make logical sense. But teams know Westbrook is hot to be moved, and acquiring Lowry (and his rights) makes sense for an OKC team that won’t be bad enough to be awful, and still could find themselves near playoff contention with this projected move. If not, Lowry is a moveable piece at the deadline.

Toronto gets another dynamic offensive player in Westbrook to run their offense through, while also being the centerpiece to build around for 4 years - while much of the rest of their roster plays out expiring contracts in 2019-20.

 

The Detroit Pistons Go All-In

Russell Westbrook  for Reggie Jackson, Tony Snell, a prospect, and a high draft pick

Blake Griffin is due $110M over the next three seasons, while Andre Drummond can earn $56M over the next two. Dropping Westbrook into this conversation makes Detroit a risky, albeit strong contender in the Eastern Conference.

The Pistons likely part ways with former Thunder PG Reggie Jackson, Tony Snell, a prospect, and a high pick to get this deal done. Is this the smartest move for Detroit? No, but this franchise has been hard-pressed to come across Top 20 NBA talent, and this is a way to do it immediately. OKC can clear about $5M of 2019-20 cap with this projected move.

 

Two Out Two In for Houston

Russell Westbrook & Steven Adams  for Chris Paul & Clint Capela

Rockets GM Daryl Morey has gone on record to say that putting three stars together is all the matters, the rest can be filled in from there. Clint Capela dropped out of “star” status in 2018-19 with Houston, and Chris Paul appears to be on a sharp decline before our very eyes. In acquiring both Westbrook & Steven Adams, Houston gets a fresh look at both positions, all while keeping James Harden, and glue-guy  P.J. Tucker in the fold.

For the Thunder, it might seem counterintuitive to bring in Chris Paul at $38.5M this year. But Paul has 1 less year on his contract, making him a more tradeable piece in the near future, and in attaching Steven Adams’ $25M salary to Westbrooks in this deal, OKC actually clears nearly $11M of cap space this season.

The Financials of the 2019 MLB All-Star Game

Michael GinnittiJuly 09, 2019

The 90th edition of the MLB All-Star Game will take place on July 9th in Cleveland and with it comes a little extra cash and/or swap for players in attendance.

 

Home Run Derby Pool

Per a new agreement between the league and the MLBPA, the prize money for the Derby rose from $525,000 in 2018, to $2.5M in 2019, with a cool $1M prize going to the winner. The increase will prove very significant as nearly all of the participants are earning at or less than $1M in 2019. With the win, Mets 1B Pete Alonso brings his 2019 compensation up to $1.55M.

PLAYER2019 SALARY
Pete Alonso $555,000
Vlad Guerrero Jr. $555,000
Matt Chapman $580,000
Josh Bell $587,000
Alex Bregman $640,500
Ronald Acuna Jr. $1,000,000
Joc Pederson $5,000,000
Carlos Santana $17,000,000

 

Winning Team Bonus Pool

Players on the winning team will split an $800,000 purse, or $25,000 per player. This is up from $640,000/$20,000 in 2018.

All players from either team will receive six tickets to the week’s festivities, airfare/hotel accommodations, meals, and a $1,000 spending stipend as well.

 

Voting Bonuses

Players who received the most vote at their particular position received a $15,000 bonus, with $5,000 going to 2nd-place and $2,500 for third place finishers. You can view a breakdown of which players qualified for these bonuses here

 

Contract Bonuses

Many of the superstars have incentives built into their contracts that afford them bonuses for being selected to an All-Star game.

  • Whit Merrifield earns a $200,000 escalator in each of 2021, 2022, 2023
  • Sonny Gray earns a $200,000 escalator in 2020 for his ASG selection
  • Max Scherzer earns $100,000
  • Michael Brantley earns $100,000
  • Justin Verlander earns $75,000
  • Mookie Betts earns $50,000
  • Freddie Freeman earns $50,000
  • Mike Moustakas earns $50,000
  • Nolan Arenado earns $25,000
  • Jose Abreu earns $15,000
  • Mike Trout can reel in $50,000 if he’s named ASG MVP

 

Final Rosters, Financially

NFL Summer Roster Bubbles

Michael GinnittiJune 27, 2019

We've identified players from each NFL team who may be trending toward the 2019 final roster bubble, based on positional competitions, performance vs. compensation, & dead cap structure. The list below shows the individual financial implications to trade or release each player based on various bonus dates some may have. We'll continue to update this list as new reports emerge. Did we miss someone? Send suggestions to @spotrac.


Related Links:

Quarterbacks
PlayerTeamPos.2019 CapDead Cap DetailsThoughts
Tyler Bray CHI QB $666,400 Release/Trade
$21,400 ($645,000 savings)		 Trubisky & backup Chase Daniel are fully guaranteed in 2019, meaning Bray will only stick if the Bears opt to keep 3 QBs.
Jeff Driskel CIN QB $720,000 Release/Trade
$0 ($720,000 savings)		 With Dalton locked in for another year, and Ryan Finley taken in the 4th round, it stands to reason Driskel will be on the outside looking in.
Kevin Hogan DEN QB $1,290,000 Release/Trade
$300,000 ($990,000 savings)		 Flacco takes the reigns with Drew Lock likely to step into QB2 immediately. Hogan has a $90,000 bonus that kicks in Week 1.
DeShone Kizer GB QB $914,856 Release/Trade
$0 ($914,856 savings)		 Kizer showed VERY little in 3 2018 appearances, but GB did nothing to improve their backup QB position this spring. It's possible they push to upgrade this summer still.
Chad Kelly IND QB $570,000 Release/Trade
$0 ($570,000 savings)		 Kelly's a camp body until he's not.
Cardale Jones LAC QB $645,000 Release/Trade
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 Jones appears to be a viable backup, but his role was usurped this spring with the signing former Bills' teammate Tyrod Taylor.
Kyle Lauletta NYG QB $746,924 Release/Trade
$176,924 ($570,000 savings), $353,848 of 2020 dead cap		 The Giants still appear to have plenty of moving parts on their roster heading into the summer. Daniel Jones likely means the end for Lauletta.
Eli Manning NYG QB $23,200,000 Release/Trade
$11.2M ($12M savings)		 Crazier things have happened. If Daniel Jones progresses quickly in summer workouts, the smartest, best, right thing to do might be to move on from Eli before the start of the season, rather than have him stand with a clipboard to finish his career. $12M of cap & cash saved helps as well.
Trevor Siemian NYJ QB $2,000,000 Release
$1M ($1M savings)

Trade
$750,000 ($1.25M savings)		 The Jets added both Davis Webb & Luke Falk as younger pieces to compete for the backup role behind Darnold. It's perfectly possible one of them wins out, forcing Siemian off the roster with $1M saved.
Nathan Peterman OAK QB $645,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($645,000)		 I mean enough is enough right?
Nate Sudfeld PHI QB $3,095,000 Trade
$0 ($3.095M savings)		 A 2nd-round tender means PHI really likes him, and it's vital to have a solid backup for Wentz right now, but the Eagles have been known to use pieces like Sudfeld as intelligent trade bait in recent history.
Cody Kessler PHI QB $720,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($720,000 savings)		 Kessler appears to be the odd-man out for Philly, unless they push to trade Nate Sudfeld this summer.
Paxton Lynch SEA QB $645,000 Release/Trade
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 Lynch will be fighting for the backup role with Geno Smith, who appears to have the early edge based on experience.
Blaine Gabbert TB QB $1,593,750 Release/Trade
$0 ($1,593,750 savings)		 Gabbert & Ryan Griffin were signed to backup Winston in what could be his final year. Griffin's deal holds $450,000 guaranteed, Gabbert's contains $0 locked in.
Case Keenum WAS QB $3,500,000 Release/Trade
$0 ($3.5M savings)		 Keenum was acquired for 2 late round draft picks, & holds a tenable $3.5M charge, but if Colt McCoy is healthy, it stands to reason he's the veteran Washington sticks next to Dwayne Haskins for 2019, though it's very possible all three stick around.
 
Running Backs
PlayerTeamPos.2019 CapDead Cap DetailsThoughts
Kenneth Dixon BAL RB $807,391 Trade/Release
$87,391 ($720,000 savings)		 Adding Mark Ingram to this arsenal really tightened up the RB group, putting a player like Dixon, in his contract year, squarely on the bubble.
LeSean McCoy BUF RB $9,050,000 Trade/Release
$2,625,000 ($6.425M savings)		 The Bills added Frank Gore, TJ Yeldon, & 3rd rounder Devin Singletary to the mix this offseason. While all signs point to McCoy sticking, there's a lot of financial gain to be made by moving on.
Taquan Mizzell CHI RB/WR $645,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 The Bears have toyed with moving Mizzell to WR, but wherever falls this summer he'll be facing a bubble spot.
Duke Johnson CLE RB $3,050,000 Trade
$750,000 ($2.3M savings), $1.5M 2020 dead cap

Release
$2.55M ($500,000 savings), $1.5M 2020 dead cap		 Is the relationship too broken to be repaired? Johnson appeared all but gone a month ago, and until we hear otherwise, he remains on the summer bubble in Cleveland.
Theo Riddick DET RB $4,625,000 Trade/Release
$962,500 ($3.6M savings)		 Riddick's stuck around primarily because of his pass-catching abilities, but those numbers decreased in 2018. It's possible his role is replaced by a younger/cheaper player this summer.
Taiwan Jones HOU RB $1,020,000 Trade/Release
$45,000 ($975,000 savings)		 Jones was added as veteran depth behind D'Onta Foreman, but can be cut prior to the start of the season for minimal damage.
Jonathan Williams IND RB $720,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($720,000 savings)		 He was added to the roster late in 2018 but will be fighting with a strong core of young talent ahead of him this summer.
Troymaine Pope LAC RB $645,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 With a fullback in play, Pope is likely on the outside looking in of a strong RB core.
John Kelly LAR RB $617,072 Trade/Release
$47,072 ($570,000 savings), $94,144 2020 dead cap		 The selection of Darrell Henderson this April likely closed the book on Kelly's chances to stick in LA this summer.
Paul Perkins NYG RB $783,137 Trade/Release
$63,137 ($720,000 savings)		 Perkins hasn't shown much of anything in 3 seasons with the Giants. He'll enter a contract year squarely on the roster bubble.
DeAndre Washington OAK RB $787,302 Trade/Release
$67,302 ($720,00 savings)		 The Raiders brought back Doug Martin in a more mentorship role, likely squeezing out room for Washington when it's all said and done.
Josh Adams PHI RB $570,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($570,000 savings)		 The addition of Miles Sanders makes it certain that one of the RBs from last year will fall off this summer.
C.J. Prosise SEA RB $918,116 Trade/Release
$173,116 ($745,000 savings)		 Prosise hasn't been able to get it going in 3 seasons, and now finds Chris Carson and Rashaad Penny squarely ahead of him on the roster.
Andre Ellington TB RB $645,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 Ellington adds sneaky good depth to a roster where Peyton Barber & Ronald Jones both hold question marks. But a strong summer from Jones could force Ellington off.
David Fluellen TEN RB $720,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($720,000 savings)		 Fluellen will be battling for the #3 RB role this summer, and should have a stronghold on it to begin.
Byron Marshall WAS RB $720,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($720,000 savings)		 WAS will need all the depth it can get with AP, Guice, Chris Thompson, & Bryce Love all coming off recent injuries. If one needs to fall off, Marshall is likely the current man out.
 
Wide Receivers
PlayerTeamPos.2019 CapDead Cap DetailsThoughts
Kevin White ARI WR $1,478,125 Trade/Release
$400,000 ($1.07M savings)		 White gets a new life in Arizona, but will have to fight for a 53-man spot this summer.
Justin Hardy ATL WR $735,000 Trade/Release
$90,000 ($645,000 savings)		 Hardy was brought back on a minimum deal, but could have his spot pushed by Russell Gage this summer.
Seth Roberts BAL WR $2,000,000 Trade
$300,000 ($1.7M savings)

Release
$1M ($1M savings)		 Roberts was added a few weeks before the Ravens drafted Marquise Brown & Miles Boykins in early rounds. Even with $1M guaranteed, his spot is now loosely on the bubble.
Michael Floyd BAL WR $645,000 Trade/Release:
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 Floyd was added late this spring to compete for a depth role. There might be a half dozen WRs ahead of him on thr roster right now.
John Ross CIN WR $4,667,963 Trade
$2.6M ($2.02M savings), $2.6M 2020 dead cap		 It's likely Ross is given one more year to come into his own in CIN, but it's also likely the Bengals have been actively trying to trade him as well. He's fully guaranteed through 2020.
Jaelen Strong CLE WR $720,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($720,000 savings)		 Strong will likely be battling with Derrick Willies for a spot in the Top 6 this summer.
Tavon Austin DAL WR $1,328,125 Trade
$0 ($1.3M savings)

Release
$500,000 ($800,000 savings)		 Austin was brought back early in free agency, but his role may have been usurped with the addition of Randall Cobb a few days later. It's possible both are kept, but maybe unlikely.
Tommylee Lewis DET WR $920,000 Trade/Release
$50,000 ($870,000 savings)		 Lewis' fate came into question with the late addition of Jermaine Kearse
Trevor Davis GB WR $776,794 Trade/Release
$56,794 ($720,000 savings)		 Davis is more of a special teamer than a wideout right now, and that may hold enough value to keep around. But there's stiff competiion at the WR position this summer.
Chester Rogers IND WR $3,095,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($3.095M savings)		 This would be a bit of a surprise, but it stands to reason that Rogers' role will be reduced in 2019 with the additions of Devin Funchess & Parris Campbell.
Terrelle Pryor JAX WR $645,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 Pryor was a late addition to the Jaguars WR group, and finds 4-5 players ahead of him on the depth chart already.
Laquon Treadwell MIN WR $3,161,132 Trade
$1,356,362 ($1.8M savings)

Release
$2,506,362 ($654,770 savings)		 The Treadwell era in Minnesota is coming at some point, and recent moves to free up a bit of cap space could mean his release comes this summer. A trade would be better financially, but might be unlikely.
Dontrelle Inman NE WR $1,368,750 Trade/Release
$300,000 ($1M savings)		 Maurice Harris is a younger, slightly cheaper option for NE and should win out this battle in the end.
Demaryius Thomas NE WR $2,906,000 Trade/Release
$150,00 ($2.756M savings)		 Thomas needs a big camp to lock in his spot, especially with the additional of N'Keal Harry this April. He might start the year on the PUP list as well.
Cameron Meredith NO WR $4,150,000 Trade/Release
$2.75M ($1.4M savings)		 Meredith took a pay cut already to remain on the roster through the spring, but he'll still need to show up and beat out a few kids this summer to remain into the fall.
Rishard Matthews NO WR $645,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 Matthews was signed after a strong spring workout, but he's competing against youngsters Austin Carr & Keith Kirkwood, who have experience from last year on their side.
Cody Latimer NYG WR $1,410,000 Trade/Release
$400,000 ($1.01M savings)		 Latimer and Coleman might be battling each other for a roster spot this summer. Coleman costs half as much as Latimer.
Corey Coleman NYG WR $720,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($720,000 savings)		 Coleman had a decent showing to finish off 2018 in NY, and is likely penciled into a spot for now. But his lack of financialy stability could force him off should another name or two step up this summer.
Deonte Thompson NYJ WR $645,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 A late addition to big arsenal, Thompson has shown flashes in Buffalo & Dallas of being a quality downfield threat.
Ryan Grant OAK WR $1,250,000 Trade/Release
$100,000 ($1.1M savings)		 Grant's experience could help him win a role, but UDFA Keelan Doss made a big push this spring, & Dwayne Harris has special teams on his side.
Charles Johnson PHI WR $770,000 Trade/Relase
$25,000 ($745,000 savings)		 Johnson likely sees a half dozen receivers ahead of him on the roster to start camp.
Mack Hollins PHI WR $803,917 Trade/Release
$158,917 ($645,000 savings), $158,917 2020 dead cap		 Injured in 2018, Hollins will need to round back into form to earn a role amidst a huge group of WRs heading to Eagles camp.
Amara Darboh SEA WR $844,572 Trade/Release
$176,572 ($668,000 savings), $176,572 2020 dead cap		 He's on a soft bubble right now as the expectation is that recenly added rookies will surpass him on the depth chart this summer.
Jordan Matthews SF WR $1,706,250 Trade/Release
$300,000 ($1.4M savings)		 Matthews' currently projects to be in the Week 1 starting lineup, but he'll need to cement that role in the preseason. SF has a group of young WRs they'd like to keep around if possible.
Bobo Wilson TB WR $645,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 Wilson might enter the summer as the 6th WR on the depth chart, but UDFA Anthony Johnson has a legitimate chance to beat him out.
Tajae Sharpe TEN WR $2,093,721 Trade/Release
$68,721 ($2.025M savings)		 Sharpe's advanced analytics work heavily against him. His lack of special teams abilities don't help either.
 
Tight Ends
PlayerTeamPos.2019 CapDead Cap DetailsThoughts
Logan Paulsen ATL TE $735,000

Trade/Release
$90,000 ($645,000 savings)

 With Austin Hooper, Luke Stocker, & Eric Saubert ahead of him, Paulsen faces an uphill climb to lock in a final roster spot
Jason Croom BUF TE $572,000 Trade/Releae
$2,000 ($570,000 savings)		 Croom is an adequate depth option, but the Bills added Tyler Kroft, Lee Smith, Dawson Knox, & Tommy Sweeney this spring. Kroft's injury may temporarily delay his exit.
Seth Devalve CLE TE $815,849 Trade/Release
$95,948 ($720,000 savings)		 If the Browns decide to keep 4 TEs (unlikely), Devalve's role should be secure. Otherwise he's likley beat out by a cheaper, more versatile Orson Charles this summer.
Rico Gathers DAL TE $586,668 Trade/Release
$16,668 ($570,000 savings)		 Witten's return likely spells the end for Gathers in Dallas
Jerome Cunningham DET TE $645,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 The Lions appear to be utilizing more H-Back sets, so a player like Cunningham could stick, but he's the 4th TE on the roster for now.
Marcedes Lewis GB TE $2,100,000 Trade/Release
$500,000 ($1.6M savings)		 Lewis is most likely safe, but it's worth noting that GB added Jace Sternberger in the 3rd round, and signed back Robert Tonyan as well.
Darren Fells HOU TE $1,500,000 Trade/Release
$100,000 ($1.4M savings)		 Fells was brought in to cover for the released Ryan Griffin, but Houston loaded up on young TEs in and after the draft as well. He's the most expensive of the lot.
Gabe Holmes IND TE $645,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 Indy has seven TEs under contract, and Holmes appears to be at the tail end of the roster.
Ben Koyack JAC TE $720,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($720,000 savings)		 Koyack's spot could hinge on the Jags decision to keep 4 or 5 running backs (without having a traditional fullback on the roster).
Blake Bell KC TE $735,000 Trade/Release
$90,000 ($645,000 savings)		 Reports claim the Chiefs are prepared to backup Travis Kelce with two youngsters in Deon Yelder & John Lovett. Both are strong blocking TEs & good athletes.
Neal Sterling KC TE $645,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 Sterling was a late addition after being released from the Jets, and will face an uphill battle to secure a spot.
Clive Walford MIA TE $720,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($720,000 savings)		 Walford signed a minimum contract with Miami this March, but will have a limited role if any in 2019.
Scott Simonson NYG TE $735,000 Trade/Release
$90,000 ($645,000 savings)		 Simonson will be pushed by UDFA CJ Conrad, who showed strongly this spring.
Erik Swoope OAK TE $645,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 Swoope has bounced around as a depth TE, but the Raiders have three solid TEs already locked into the roster.
Will Tye PHI TE $720,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($720,000 savings)		 Tye will be vying for Richard Rodgers' role this summer, but it's unlikely he wins out.
Ed Dickson SEA TE $4,416,666 Trade/Release
$866,666 ($3.55M savings), $866,666 2020 dead cap		 Dickson caught 12 passes in 10 games in SEA last season, and his $4.4M cap figure might be too rich to stick.
Garrett Celek SF TE $2,703,125 Trade/Release
$625,000 ($2.07M savings)		 Celek is recovering from back surgery and could have trouble finding the field again at all, let alone in 2019.
Jordan Leggett TB TE $645,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 In Brate, Howard, & Antony Auclair, TB has one of the better TE groups in football (when healthy).
 
Offensive Linemen
PlayerTeamPos.2019 CapDead Cap DetailsThoughts
Adam Gettis ATL OC $645,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 Atlanta rebuilt this offensive line in a rash attempt to regain footing in 2019, but not all will stick.
John Wetzel ATL OG $720,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($720,000 savings)		 Atlanta rebuilt this offensive line in a rash attempt to regain footing in 2019, but not all will stick.
Alex Lewis BAL OG $2,147,975 Trade/Release
$122,975 ($2.025M savings)		 Lewis' lack of versatility and injury history make him a bubble candidate prior to camp.
Vladimir Ducasse BUF OG $2,083,334 Trade/Release
$83,334 ($2M savings)		 Ducasse has been a viable lineman for the Bills the past two seasons, but may be squeezed out of a spot in 2019.
Russell Bodine BUF OC $2,806,244 Trade/Release
$500,000 ($2.3M savings)		 Bodine was brought in last year to cover for the sudden retirement of Eric Wood. Mitch Morse should force him off the roster in 2019.
Christian Westerman CIN OG $777,924 Trade/Release
$57,924 ($720,000 savings)		 The Bengals added experience across the board to their OL, likely pushing Westerman, who's entering a contract year in 2019, off the roster.
Bryan Witzmann CLE OG $920,000 Trade/Release
$175,000 ($745,000 savings)		 Cleveland added Drew Forbes in the 6th round this April, who should be able to beat out Witzmann for a role as a depth Guard.
Xavier Su'a-Filo DAL OG $830,000 Trade/Release
$25,000 ($815,000 savings)		 Su'a-Filo appears to be the last veteran in line before a few notable rookies. All it takes is one to jump him this summer.
Kenny Wiggins DET OG $3,125,000 Trade/Release
$375,000 ($2.75M savings)		 Wiggins isn't squarely on the bubble, but it seems possible he loses a camp battle to a younger/cheaper option this summer.
Luke Bowanko DET OC $645,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 Bowanko offers littler versatility, which will be needed to stick on in a depth role.
Matt Kalil HOU OT $7,500,000 Trade/Release
$2.25M ($5.25M savings)		 A healthy Kalil certainly makes this OL better, but HOU has yet to determine if he's worth the risk in 2019. He'll remain on the bubble with $5.25M to be saved if he's released.
Josh Andrews IND OG $720,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($720,000 savings)		 Andrews will by vying for the final depth spot on the OL with J'Marcus Webb, who holds a slight edge currently.
Forrest Lamp LAC OG $1,818,251 Trade/Release
$747,167 ($1.07M savings), $747,167 2020 dead cap		 Lamp might wind up a starter, or on the outside looking in. It's a huge summer for the former 2nd round pick.
Jordan Devey OAK OG $735,000 Trade/Release
$90,000 ($645,000 savings)		 Devey will be competing with UDFA Lester Cotton for the final depth piece to Oakland's OL.
Evan Smith TB OC $2,000,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($2M savings)		 Smith's recovering from double hip surgery, and will be battling former Cardinals OL Earl Watford for a spot on the roster.
Hroniss Grasu TEN OC $720,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($720,000 savings)		 There just appears to be too much young depth signed to the Titans roster to consider keeping him.
Ereck Flowers WAS OT $3,203,125 Trade
$1M ($2.2M savings)

Release
$1.5M ($1.7M savings)		 The Redskins took a flier on him in March, but he's had a rough spring to say the least. He'll need to outright steal a spot this summer.
 
Defensive Linemen
PlayerTeamPos.2019 CapDead Cap DetailsThoughts
Robert Nkemdiche ARI DE $2,736,555 Trade
$1.1M ($1.6M savings)

Release prior to Training Camp
$2.2M ($500,000 savings)

Release after Training Camp
$2.7M ($0 savings)		 Nkemdiche's future was already in trouble for his on-field performance, but a recent arrest really puts the spotlight on his role in 2019. He has a $400,000 roster bonus due the 5th day of training camp.
Eli Harold BUF DE $735,000 Trade/Release
$90,000 ($645,000 savings)		 Harold will be competing with Eddie Yarbrough & Darryl Johnson for the 4th DE spot this summer. All are considered bubble players entering camp.
Kyle Peko BUF DT $645,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 The Bills have major bucks invested into Star Lotulelei, Ed Oliver, & better options in Jordan & Harrison Phillips after that.
Vernon Butler CAR DT $2,671,618 Trade
$1M ($1.6M savings)

Release
$2.67M ($0 savings)		 The Panthers declined Butler's 5th-year option, making 2019 a clear make or break situation. It's possible they explore a trade this offseason, and look to shake things up a bit on their DL.
Nick Williams CHI DT $735,000 Trade/Release
$90,000 ($645,000 savings)		 Williams is a solid veteran depth player, but barely found the field in 2018. A crowded group this summer could squeeze him out.
Jordan Willis CIN DE $980,850 Trade/Release
$226,100 ($754,570 savings), $226,100 2020 dead cap		 A 3rd round pick in 2017, Willis has yet to surface as a legitimate option for the Bengals DL.
Anthony Zettel CLE DE $720,0000 Trade/Release
$0 ($720,000 savings)		 Zettel will likely face a camp battle with Genard Avery, who has an edge because of versatility.
Carl Davis CLE DT $2,000,000 Trade/Release
$400,000 ($1.6M savings)		 Despite a $400,000 signing bonus this spring, Davis' spot will be pushed by Daniel Ekuale, who's been seeing more reps this summer thus far.
DeMarcus Walker DEN DE $1,383,780 Trade/Release
$457,520 ($926,260 savings), $457,520 2020 dead cap		 Walker will be battling with Billy Winn for the final spot on the Broncos D-Line this summer. His release would clear almost $1M in 2019.
Joel Heath HOU DT $998,125 Trade/Release
$0 ($998,125 savings)		 The oft-injured undrafted free agent from 2016 has shown he can compete, but may be passed over in 2019 for fresh blood.
Dawuane Smoot JAX DE $1,053,540 Trade/Release
$241,040 ($812,500 savings), $241,040 2020 dead cap		 Smoots lack of versatility likely puts him to the rear of the DL depth chart. With guaranteed money now expired on his contract, he'll face a bubble spot this summer.
T.Y. McGill LAC DT $805,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($805,000 savings)		 McGill sits behind a long line of solid veterans in front of him. He'll be fighting for the last spot this summer.
John Jenkins NYG DE $685,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($685,000 savings)		 The Giants spent much of their offseason addressing the DL. Jenkins will be fighting to win a depth spot at best.
Eddie Vanderdoes OAK DT $869,303 Trade/Release
$190,303 ($679,000 savings), $190,303 2020 dead cap		 Vanderdoes was injured in 2018, so he'll be competing to regain his role on a new-look Raiders roster.
Nazair Jones SEA DT $844,572 Trade/Release
$176,572 ($668,000 savings) $176,572 2020 dead cap		 2 years ago Jones was a lock to be kept around. But a tough 2018 now has his role in question.
Sheldon Day SF DT $720,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($720,000 savings)		 Too much depth in front of him at this point.
Rakeem Nunez-Roches TB DT $735,000 Trade
$90,000 ($645,000 savings)

Release
$240,000 ($495,000 savings)		 Nunez-Roches falls victim to needs elsewhere, as he likely makes the 53-man roster on many other teams. His $240,000 guaranteed could factor into the decision though.
Marcus Smith WAS DE $805,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($805,000 savings)		 The Redskins D-Line is all but set at this point.
   
Linebackers
PlayerTeamPos.2019 CapDead Cap DetailsThoughts
Tim Williams BAL OLB $904,170 Trade/Release
$214,170 ($690,000 savings) $214,170 2020 dead cap		 Williams finished off 2018 as a healthy scratch. Toss in the additions of Pernell McPhee and Shane Ray & he faces a battle to stick.
D.J. Alexander JAX ILB $645,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 Alexander will likely give way to Ramik Wilson this summer who should join Najee Goode as depth pieces in the middle of the Jags defense.
Jeremiah Attaochu KC OLB $735,000 Trade/Release
$90,000 ($645,000 savings)		 The final LB spot on the roster will probably come down to special teams, where Ben Niemann currently holds an edge.
Elandon Roberts NE ILB $2,050,089 Trade/Release
$25,089 ($2.025M savings)		 Without special teams experience on his resume, Roberts might have a tough time sticking this summer.
Jonathan Anderson NYG ILB $720,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($720,000 savings)		 The GIants already stand to keep 5 ILBs on their final roster. Even that seems a stretch...
Paul Worrilow PHI OLB $645,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 LJ Fort & Zach Brown should both be ahead of Worrilow by the end of camp, putting his spot on a 53 in danger.
Marquis Flowers WAS OLB $805,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($805,000 savings)		 The addition of Montez Sweat shored up the edge for Washington this year.
   
Defensive Backs
PlayerTeamPos.2019 CapDead Cap DetailsThoughts
Justin Bethel BAL CB $2,000,000 Trade/Release
$500,000 ($1.5M savings), $500,000 2020 dead cap		 Bethel was one of the Ravens first signings this March, but his contract comes with a lack of stability. He'll be competing with a few youngsters for a depth CB role.
Ross Cockrell CAR CB $3,600,000 Trade/Release
$1.2M ($2.4M savings)		 Cockrell is trying to retun from a nasty leg injury, so his future is very much in question, especially with a $3.6M cap figure in 2019.
Lenzy Pipkins CLE CB $645,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 Pipkins stands to be a depth nickel corner heading into camp, which leaves his roster spot squarely on the bubble.
Phillip Gaines CLE CB $645,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($645,000 savings)		 Gaines has versatility, so his release would be a bit surprising, but the Browns are safety heavy heading into the summer, which could remove a CB spot from the final roster.
George Iloka DAL FS $735,000 Trade
$90,000 ($645,000 savings)

Release
$300,000 ($435,000 savings)		 Iloka locked in $300,000 guaranteed, so it would be a little surprising to see him outright released this summer. His spot could hinge on how many CBs the Cowboys decided to keep (which could be 6)
Su'a Cravens DEN S $852,815 Trade/Release
$0 ($852,815 savings)		 Cravens was a healthy scratch to finish out 2018, so he faces a major uphill battle to win a role in 2019.
Marcus Cooper DET CB $735,000 Trade/Release
$90,000 ($645,000 savings)		 Detroit's secondary is pretty set in stone, so it'll take an impactful summer for a player like Cooper to crack the lineup.
Josh Jones GB SS $1,154,567 Trade/Release
$304,711 ($849,856 savings), $304,711 2020 dead cap		 Jones is a perfectly solid depth safety for the Packers, at a perfectly doable price. But he sees himself as a starter, and has been pressing for a trade out of GB all spring.
Ken Crawley NO CB $2,025,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($2.025M savings)		 Crawley's production fell off mightily in 2018, and he was eventually replaced by Eli Apple. It seems a longshot he sticks in 2019 at $2M+.
Artie Burns PIT CB $3,051,678 Pre-Camp Release
$1,293,817 ($1.75M savings)		 Burns is owed an $800,000 roster bonus on the 2nd day of training camp, so a decision is coming soon.
Jamar Taylor SEA CB $735,000 Trade/Release
$25,000 ($710,000 savings)		 Seattle will likely push to keep an extra safety, putting Taylor's roster spot in danger.
Antone Exum SF FS $735,000 Trade/Release
$50,000 ($685,000 savings)		 The Niners are more likely to keep an extra CB, with the versatility to play safety, than a more singular player such as Exum this summer.
Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie WAS CB $690,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($690,000 savings)		 DRC will battle for a spot, but it's tough to see him stealing one at this point in time.
 
Special Teams
PlayerTeamPos.2019 CapDead Cap DetailsThoughts
Greg Joseph CLE K $570,000 Trade/Release
$0 ($570,000 savings)		 Joseph actually might become a trade candidate this summer (thinking you Chicago), as he's been more than adequate in his role, but simply can't stick after the Browns selected Austin Seibert with a 5th round pick.
Mason Crosby GB K $4,850,000 Trade/Release
$1.25M ($3.6M savings)		 Sam Ficken was added to the roster this spring to compete with the much more expensive Crosby this summer.
Kevin McDermott MIN LS $960,000 Trade/Release
$200,000 ($760,000 savings)		 The Vikings drafted Austin Cutting in the 7th round this spring, which likely puts a nail in McDermott's stay.
Ryan Allen NE P $1,500,000 Trade/Release
$100,000 ($1.4M savings)		 The Patriots traded up in the 5th round to select Jake Bailey this spring, putting Ryan Allen on full notice.
Chris Boswell PIT K $4,200,000 Trade/Release
$1.2M ($3M savings), $3.6M 2020 dead cap		 Boswell is owed a $2M roster bonus right before Week 1, so the Steelers have some time to figure out if they can/should move on. The 2020 dead cap isn't ideal though.
Robbie Gould SF K $4,971,000 Trade
$0 ($4.971M savings)		 The Niners have until July 15th to lock in Gould to a long-term deal. It seems highly likely that he's traded at some point this summer.
Cairo Santos TB K $1,000,000 Trade/Release
$195,000 ($805,000 savings)		 Santos will battle with Matt Gay this summer for the kicking spot. It's a total toss up.
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