Starting QB may be without a team by next week, with franchise considering opting out of $3m roster bonus.
The Quarterback controversy that was thought to occur in Buffalo this offseason may never happen, with Bills still unsure whether they will pay Ryan Fitzpatrick an extra $3m to be on the roster next season, reports Profootballtalk.com.
Fitzpatrick was meant to develop more as a passer in 2012, after being awarded with a six year $60m contract before the season, but had a poor year.
His stunted development played a part, as the Bills fizzled out to a rather forgettable 6-10 record.
There is a big decision to be made in the Bills front office this week. Does GM Buddy Nix think the former Harvard student can regain his form and help the Bills to a potential playoff hunt? If not, then it seems a poor business choice to keep the QB, as his high bonus will count towards the overall salary cap, and in the NFL, every penny counts; wasting $3m on someone who may not play is a poor financial choice.
If he is kept on, he will already have the upper hand going into the potential QB battle with Tavaris Jackson and the Quarterback they will inevitably draft next month.
If he is cut, then he will find his way onto another team very quickly to be very good backup or to compete for a starting role on a lesser contract.
This writer believes, however, that he will stay, with the Bills taking the chance on Fitzpatrick improving during the off-season and getting back to his 2011 best.
COMMENTS