The clock is ticking for the Arizona Cardinals to determine exactly what Larry Fitzgerald's future with the franchise is. After the season ended, Fitzgerald continued to speak like a man ready to move on as he thanked Arizona for his time there, but remained uncertain if a return was in the works or not. The two sides have been negotiating the best step to take for 2015 and beyond and so far no resolution as come from the meetings.
According to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, the Cardinals and Fitzgerald are trying to make things work regarding the future of their relationship. The wide receiver's agent has been meeting with the Cardinals in hopes that they can work out a contract agreement that will make Fitzgerald stay in Arizona for the remainder of his career. His current salary number does not allow that to happen. Fitzgerald is due $16 million next season while being a massive $23 million hit. If released, the Cardinals save $9.2 million in cap space and can do big things with that. A trade gives Arizona $16 million in space.
The wide receiver and Cardinals are trying to negotiate a pay cut, something Fitzgerald is not exactly jumping to. On March 14 he is a due an $8 million roster bonus. How much is the receiver willing to give up? At the right price, Fitzgerald would be available at the right price in a trade and there could be a solid market for his services. Still a top wide receiver, anyone looking for a veteran deep threat will aim to acquire the Cardinals receiver.
The New England Patriots could be frontrunners. The team is likely going to release players like Aaron Dobson and potentially Danny Amendola who has a big cap hit. They need someone that can run alongside Julian Edelman and Brandon LaFell. The Patriots will not give up much for Fitzgerald since they are not aiming to blow their salary cap on big names with a contract for Darrelle Revis a priority.
The Browns could be an option. The team just lost Josh Gordon to a suspension and is desperate for a top player. The Oakland Raiders are in the same boat as they build around Derek Carr. Fitzgerald loses all leverage in a trade situation. The veteran will simply go to the team that made the best offer who might or might not be a contender.