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John Glennon posted an interesting story about five players that the Tennessee Titans could and should spend some extra time evaluating this offseason. (By the way read that story, it is great to get contract information from sources like him who have a firm grasp on what they actually are instead of speculation)
While many people are quick to cut them all (because, let's face it how can you justify some of these contracts after winning 5 out of 32 games with these players) I would rather see some restructured. Here are some thoughts.
Ropati Pitoitua DL
2016 Salary: $3 million
Cap saved: $3.08 million
Where does he rank at his position in terms of salary: 18th
PFF rank: 83rd
I think this is one of the more obvious ones to me. While I think Pitoitua overachieved in his time as a starter with the Titans, both Angelo Blackson and DaQuan Jones seem to be very capable of playing that position going into next year and both are very cheap. I think that is makes sense to outright cut RP, even though I think he is going to be a good role player somewhere else.
Cap after move: $48.7 million
Dexter McCluster RB/WR
2016 Salary: $2.75 million
Cap saved: $2.65 million
Where does he rank at his position in terms of salary: 19th
PFF rank: 63rd
The Tennessee Titans aren't likely to cut ties with McCluster because of Mike Mularkey's infatuation with him as a leader. While that may be true it would really show Titans fans that Robinson was in charge of personnel if Dexter McCluster was cut. It would show that Robinson is actually the guy behind the 53-man roster and that he wasn't being held back.
Cap after move: $50.9 million
Harry Douglas WR
2016 Salary: $3.25 million
Cap saved: $3.02 million
Where does he rank at his position in terms of salary: 42nd
PFF rank: 97th
This is almost the exact same situation as with Dexter McCluster. The coaches love his off the field work, but he just hasn't produced at a high enough level to warrant his pay yet. Honestly I don't mind keeping him on the roster, but it would sure help if he shaved off a $1 million or so to continue to play with his OC and a quality quarterback.
Cap after move: $51.9 million
Jason McCourty CB
2016 Salary: $7 million
Cap saved: $7 million
Where does he rank at his position in terms of salary: 13th
PFF rank: N/A
I think the Titans cannot cut Jason McCourty. He is the best defensive back on this team, and while he may not be a true top corner, when he is healthy he is one of the best-15 in the league. Putting him in an aggressive defense like LeBeau's with a full offseason under his belt and with him being actually healthy, he should be a huge boost to the secondary.
However, I think the Titans should knock around $2 million off his salary if they can. They paid him a large chunk of money last year despite really not playing at all, and I think he should/would be receptive to a slight pay cut if it means making a more successful team.
Cap after move: $54 million
Anthony Fasano TE
2016 Salary: $1.98 million
Cap saved: $2.63 million
Where does he rank at his position in terms of salary: 29th
PFF rank: 38th
I really like Fasano and I think that is one of the few positions this team does not need any help. While PFF has him ranked low, I don't see that at all, Fasano is a good run blocker and can catch passes well enough (especially for those of us who remember Taylor Thompson). You don't make a need out of a strength position, so don't cut Fasano, or even mess with his deal.
Cap after move: $54 million