San Francisco 49ers: Possible Cap Casualties in 2016
By Peter Panacy
Linebacker Ahmad Brooks
Veteran linebacker Ahmad Brooks was tied for the team lead in sacks last season with fellow outside linebacker Aaron Lynch (6.5). And Brooks was also one of the worst defenders on San Francisco’s roster as well.
According to Pro Football Focus, Brooks graded out with a minus-10.2 overall grade in 2015, which was second worst above inside linebacker Michael Wilhoite (minus-16.5).
At 31 years old, Brooks has already been the focus of roster cuts dating back to last season. And one would reason he would be again in 2016. Lynch is the clear pass-rushing force the 49ers want to promote. And while linebacker Corey Lemonier has been a disappointment, second-year pro Eli Harold may wind up being more of a long-term replacement here.
Harold would also be a much cheaper option considering Brooks’ $9.605 million cap hit this year.
Brooks’ 2016 salary is second highest on the 49ers, just behind quarterback Colin Kaepernick’s $15.891 million mark. And the 49ers are no longer getting the type of production that would warrant Brooks sticking around for the final two years of his current deal.
Speaking of Kaepernick…
Next: QB Colin Kaepernick