ESPN Article by Adam Schefter said:Pro Bowl cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha's contract voided and he will be allowed to become a free agent without the Oakland Raiders being able to use their franchise tag on him, according to an NFL Players Association document.
Asomughas deal included a little-known clause that said his contract would void if he didnt achieve his not-likely-to-be-earned incentives in 2010 -- and he didn't.
His contract also contained a stipulation that if he didnt achieve his incentives, the Raiders would agree not to designate him their franchise or transition player.
To achieve his incentives, Asomugha had to play in a greater number of defensive plays in 2010 than he did in 2009, and this season Asomugha played in only 14 games whereas he played in all 16 in 2009.
He also could have achieved his incentives by improving upon on his interceptions, fumble recoveries or sacks this season -- but he didn't have any interceptions, fumble recoveries or sacks this season.
He will be the top defensive player available whenever free agency begins.
That was the article I just read on ESPN. Stunning news, it really could change the entire landscape of free agency this year. Asomugha is an excellent player so I have no doubt that a bunch of teams will be gunning for him. Especially since a Corner Back of his caliber rarely comes along, anyway... and all the teams that missed their chance to get him before will now be out in full force. That being said, where can you see him landing?
I'm not sure yet. There are a lot of teams that would need his help and he'd be an excellent addition to any secondary. I can see him going back to Oakland, really. Although it may be a long shot, Nnamdi doesn't seem to hate it there, and Davis would certainly shell out the cash for him. Another place that for some reason keeps popping up in my head is Baltimore. Asomugha would be a lethal combination with Ed Reed and that excellent Baltimore defense, but that's mostly wishful thinking.
Thoughts?