The Washington Commanders are cutting safety Bobby McCain, a source with knowledge of the situation confirmed.
McCain’s release makes the defensive back the Commanders’ first notable cap casualty of the offseason. The 29-year-old was set to enter the final year of his contract with a $5.1 million cap hit, but instead, according to Over the Cap, the move will free up $2.3 million in cap space.
McCain saw his role last season changed because of safety Darrick Forrest’s emergence. With the 2021 fifth-rounder playing well, the Commanders moved McCain to a slot cornerback role, while Forrest and Kamren Curl were the team’s two primary safeties. Even in his altered role, however, McCain still played 93% of the defense’s snaps — the second-most on the team.
ESPN first reported McCain’s release.
Over two years in Washington, McCain started 32 of 34 games and recorded 139 tackles, one forced fumble, five passes defensed and four interceptions. He spent the first six years of his career as a defensive back with the Miami Dolphins.
Washington will have to find a new slot cornerback to fill McCain’s role. Veteran Danny Johnson, who has played that position periodically for Washington in the past, is set to hit the market next month.
Beyond Curl and Forrest, the team also has 2022 fourth-rounder Percy Butler on the roster. Butler played primarily on special teams as a rookie — logging just 135 defensive snaps. But coaches have spoken highly of Butler’s development and he could be in line for a bigger role upon McCain’s departure.
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.