NORTHCUTT:
That means his 4.5 million is spread as a cap hit over the 5 years, i.e. slightly less than 1 million a year. If we cut him, all that bonus money that is left, a little under 3 million will all show up as a cap hit for next season (although with the salary cap on the outs, it isn’t likely to matter from a cap standpoint).
My point is that you don’t give a guy 4.5 million just to sign on the dotted line and then cut him before his contract is halfway through. Northcutt is more versatile than Williams (Dennis can field punts) and was the leading receiver last season. He’s had back problems this year and that may explain his drop in production (That, and M.J. replacing him as the #1 WR on the depth chart).

WILLIAMS:
Some of you may remember that Williams signed a 6 year deal with the team in 2004, meaning he’s got one year left after this season, however, you may not know that the 6th year is an option year and the team can void his contract after this season. Why Not? Somebody has to go.
He had knee surgery earlier in the year, and it has obviously had a detrimental impact on his play. He’s never had any deep speed, but now he’s not getting any separation what-so-ever. Like I said, the second half of the season will determine his fate. If he can get back to 2007 form, he’ll likely stay, if he can’t… well then the team would be better served to void the final year of his contract. We can’t carry 6 WR’s again next year, and he’s obviously #6 on the depth chart now. I really see very little upside to Williams… He hasn’t got the speed, and he isn’t a great route runner… It’s not like he’s gonna wake up one day and start running a 4.4. It would be nice, but it won’t happen.