The
Chicago Bears can't really say they upgraded at slot cornerback with the signing of
Buster Skrine. They had something really good in
Bryce Callahan despite his well-documented health issues. Skrine has never proven to be quite on his level in terms of coverage. However, he's experienced, versatile, and durable. Those are good qualities to have. Besides, they don't need him to be a star. Just good enough.
The best part of it all is they got him cheap. Callahan is making $7 million a year in his new contract with the Denver Broncos. Skrine is making $5.5 million. That's not a bad discount, especially if Chuck Pagano can elevate his play beyond where it was in New York. That's not the end of it though.
It turns out there are deeper details behind this contract. One that grants the Bears even more financial flexibility than people first thought. Brad Spielberger of OverTheCap.com explained in a recent tweet.
Bears got a bigger bargain on Buster Skrine than first believed
It's a bit complicated but the overall situation is clear. The Bears have more salary cap space than what has been reported. Instead of the $16.5 million that most have indicated, it's likely over $18.5 million. While they may seem like a small difference, every dollar saved can be used to acquire quality talent at other positions.
Or it could go into a contract extension for one of their players next year. There is nothing negative about this move. It merely proves that GM Ryan Pace continues to have a firm mastery of the cap, even when more of his resources are tied up than in previous years. People continue to learn why he was one of the most respected pro personnel directors prior to joining the Bears.
It will be interesting to see where he applies that extra money in the coming weeks. Will it go to more free agents or be saved for possible extensions? Only the Bears know for sure.
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