2017 NFL Salary Cap Casualties: Likely Fate of the Biggest Names

Jan 1, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (9) walks off the field after a game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. The Philadelphia Eagles won 27-13. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (9) walks off the field after a game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. The Philadelphia Eagles won 27-13. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 24, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor (5) runs during the first half against the Miami Dolphins at New Era Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 24, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor (5) runs during the first half against the Miami Dolphins at New Era Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports /

Tyrod Taylor

It’s amazing how fast the turnaround has been for Tyrod Taylor. A year ago he went to the Pro Bowl and just missed the playoffs for the Buffalo Bills. Now it appears ownership and the front office are planning to shove him out the door. Given his age (27) and relatively decent cap number ($15.9 million) they may get a modest return in a trade. If not, they can cut him and save $9.9 million. Odds are quite strong that he’ll garner interest from other teams.

New home:  New York Jets

Taylor will be looking out for revenge on Buffalo and the Jets are in dire need of stability at quarterback. A perfect marriage.

Colin Kaepernick

With a multitude of opportunities squandered, Colin Kaepernick may have finally run his course as a starting quarterback in the NFL. Teams are going to be wary of his notable tendency to garner controversial attention. San Francisco won’t stop him from opting out of his contract. No doubt they’ll welcome the $16.9 million it will free up on their cap. As for what the future prospects hold, Kaepernick still isn’t even 30-years old yet. He may try rebuilding himself as a backup somewhere then try again in the near future.

New home:  Dallas Cowboys

With Romo on his way out, the Cowboys will want some depth behind Prescott. Kaepernick would do well under a stable coaching staff with no pressure for awhile.