Recently-released cornerback Jason McCourty was scheduled to earn $7MM in 2017, but he’s not expected to come close to that figure on the open market. A one-year deal with a maximum of $2MM — similar to the pact Leon Hall inked with the Giants last season — could be a likely outcome for McCourty, a source tells Mike Reiss of ESPN.com.
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There are at least a few reasons to think McCourty can earn more than Hall was forced to accept, however. As Reiss notes, McCourty is nearly three years younger than Hall, who was 31 when he agreed to his New York contract. Additionally, Hall had undergone offseason back surgery, which potentially worried teams about his availability. Hall didn’t land a free agent deal until August of 2016.
On the other hand, McCourty has dealt with recent injury concerns of his own. He suffered shoulder and chest ailments in 2016, while groin surgeries that caused him to miss 12 games the year prior. Plus, McCourty hasn’t posted an above-average campaign since the 2013 season. Hall, meanwhile, had largely maintained his level of play over the past few years.
Teams have already begun inquiring on McCourty, who is expected to be officially cut on Monday. I recently speculated that clubs such as the Bills, Colts, Cowboys, Eagles, Lions, Packers, Saints, and Cardinals could all show interest, while Reiss called the Patriots a “ideal match” for McCourty.
Patriots 1 year 3 mil base up to 2 million more in playing time incentives, with a 4 million team option next year.
I doubt the lions are in play. I think they address corner in this deep CB draft class.
agreed
I’m curious why Pittsburgh wouldn’t be in play…?