Because of some goofy rules that apply in an uncapped season, the Washington Redskins could not talk about a new deal with the newly-acquired Donovan McNabb. Now, however, it appears as though they can.
According to John Clayton of ESPN, McNabb could be getting a lucrative new deal within the next couple of weeks. Of course, this is also the same guy who swore for two years that the Eagles would be trading for Anquan Boldon tomorrow… no, tomorrow… no, today… okay, definitely tomorrow.
But since Jason Reid of the Washington Post is also saying it’s a possibility, there might actually be some merit in all of this.
While this is perhaps news just because the ball could get rolling soon, it’s not a surprise that the ‘Skins would look to lock McNabb up for at least a few more years. He’s 33 years old, but could easily have four or maybe even five years left in his playing career.
Barring another one of his freak injuries, McNabb is a guy who keeps himself in great shape and will rarely miss games because of a tweak here and a tweak there like some. If he’s missing time, something is usually broken or torn. So if he can avoid that as he’s been able to do for the large part of the past three seasons, the ‘Skins should see a great return on their investment.
The only question now will be the length and dollar amount. McNabb is, without a doubt, one of the last remaining “franchise quarterbacks” in the league today, so it’s going to be a pretty hefty deal. Add in the fact that Danny Snyder will overpay anyone and McNabb must have the down-payment already laid out for his own private island.
If I was to throw out a guess, I’d say three years, $45 million with $25 million or so guaranteed. That gives McNabb the opportunity to earn $15 million per year, but guarantees a little over $8 million per season.