Chicago Bears: How Tracy Porter’s release impacts the cornerback position
How does Tracy Porter‘s release affect the Chicago Bears’ plans at cornerback in 2017?
After the Chicago Bears got blown out at home in Week 16 against Washington, I mused that Tracy Porter likely played his last home game in the Windy City. To the surprise of very few, that prediction came true.
The Bears released the nine-year veteran today, saving themselves $3.6 million in cap space for next season. Once the team brought in Prince Amukamara ($7 million guaranteed in 2017) and Marcus Cooper ($6 million guaranteed in 2017), the writing looked to be on the wall for Porter.
Though he had his good moments as a Bear, injuries hampered the 30-year-old Porter last year especially. That was never more evident than when he attempted to cover DeSean Jackson in Week 16. Long story short: his career is approaching the finish line, and it made sense to move on from him.
What it means
In addition to freeing up money, Porter’s release also alleviates pressure on a really crowded cornerback room. While several players (B.W. Webb, Rashaad Reynolds) are depth signings, the move eliminates some competition for the starting cornerback jobs. For one thing, this gives Kyle Fuller and Deiondre’ Hall a chance to earn spots at corner. Though Hall, in particular, will get reps at safety in training camp, Fuller will at least get a chance to compete at corner along with maybe trying out safety.
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Also, his departure may increase the chance that the Bears may spend a high pick on a cornerback. Specifically, many Bears fans may be hoping they take Marshon Lattimore, this year’s top cornerback prospect, third overall. Hamstring injuries and some technique issues do raise some concerns with Lattimore. But his athleticism, if he stays healthy, gives him true shutdown corner potential. While safety Jamal Adams may currently be a better player, Lattimore’s ceiling, plus the relative value of a top corner, may be tantalizing for the Bears. Other possibilities include Kevin King, Adoree’ Jackson and Chidobe Awuzie (if they last to Round 2).
While Porter was clearly well-liked in the Chicago Bears’ locker room, business is business sometimes. By releasing him, the team gets younger at an important position and may open the door for the addition of top talent via the draft.