Donovan McNabb: How the Redskins Can Get Some Value from the Soon-to-Depart QB

While most analysts and fans believe Donovan McNabb will be cut by the Washington Redskins, the team would like to get some value in return for their disgruntled QB that is sitting on a ridiculously expensive contract.

Dan Snyder and Bruce Allen created the issue last season when they gave McNabb a contract fit for Matt Ryan.  They will have to get creative, but they could part ways with McNabb beyond offering a flat release.

The Minnesota Vikings appear to be one of the teams that would have an interest in McNabb if a new contract could be worked out.  Offering a sixth-round pick and taking a flier on McNabb being able to run their offense for two seasons is the easy part for the Vikings.

The more difficult issue is McNabb's compensation.  

As it currently stands, McNabb will be owed a $10 million roster bonus on September 12th, with another $2.5 million in salary if he is on the roster for all 16 games.  He could also be owed somewhere in the neighborhood of an addition $25 million in  guaranteed money, but the contract is anything but clear on triggers.

The key for the Vikings, or another suitor, is if McNabb's potential production is worth the risk of taking snaps away from younger players in camp when a final contract is settled.  

The idea Snyder needs to float is that a team can bring McNabb to camp to see how he fits with their offense and receivers.  If they like the production, they can then work on a realistic contract.

If McNabb doesn't seem to fit, or if there is no movement on the contract, he would become a roster cut.  Should that happen, the team that had him in camp would be the most likely suitor, as it would be difficult for him to take over an offense without the advantage of summer drills.

Now if only the players would stop dragging their feet and sign an agreement, Snyder could get on the phones and work on a package for McNabb.