The Washington Commanders will release veteran defensive back Bobby McCain, a source told ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The move frees salary cap space but Washington also likes its young secondary, making this move doable.
Washington will save $2.32 million on the salary cap by releasing McCain, who started the past two seasons at safety. If he’s designated as a post June 1 release, the Commanders would save $4.42 million.
Though he started the year as the primary free safety, McCain also would play the slot corner position when the Commanders used their three safety alignment.
The Commanders also have Kam Curl and Darrick Forrest. But they also like Percy Butler, a fourth-round pick last year, as a possible starter or key contributor next season. The speedy Butler could play the free safety role and could cover bigger targets when aligned near the box.
McCain originally signed a one-year deal with Washington in the 2021 offseason, then received a two-year contract last offseason. He spent his first six seasons with Miami, playing both corner and safety.
Washington now has approximately $9 million in available cap space. The Commanders will release quarterback Carson Wentz at some point before free agency, freeing up another $26.176 million against the cap.
Washington also must decide if it wants to keep veteran center Chase Roullier, who has suffered two season-ending injuries the past two seasons. If they cut him, the Commanders would save $4.32 million.
Another veteran, Logan Thomas, would save $5.175 million if cut but it’s uncertain if Washington would release him or Roullier. Washington values Thomas’ pass-catching ability, which could fit well with new offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy.
The Commanders also want to work out a long-term deal with defensive tackle Daron Payne, who will be a free agent. They will place the franchise tag on him before the March 7 deadline and continue to negotiate, a source close to the situation said.