Jean-Jacques Taylor of ESPN Dallas writes that the Cowboys could save $1 million in cap space by releasing DT Jay Ratliff before June 1.
Taylor believes cutting ties with Ratliff for a mere $1 million in cap space would be a “dumb move.” He also adds that one of the reasons that the Cowboys are planning on moving to 4-3 defense next year is to help Ratliff “maximize his talent.”
Ratliff, 31, signed a five-year deal worth $40 million back in 2011, but given that he’s dealt with injuries as of late and was recently arrested for driving while intoxicated, there’s at least some question as to whether or not he’ll be back in Dallas next season.
Taylor’s points are well taken and even with the issues and concerns surrounding Ratliff, it’s still hard to imagine them parting ways with him and looking for a replacement in the free agent market, considering their cap situation.
It should be noted that Ratliff will make $5.5 million in 2014, $7 million in 2015 and another $7.5 million in 2016, which would imply that he could be entering a make-or-break season with Cowboys.
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