Cully apparently is no longer in the house. Washington has released the one-time San Francisco 49ers cornerback, a year after signing him to a 4-year, $32 million contract. The move comes following the team's decision to sign free agent Josh Norman, and draft Kendall Fuller.
Culliver's deal included $16 million in guaranteed money. That covered a $5 million signing bonus, and base salaries of $3 million and $8 million in 2015 and 2016. However, it would appear the team will not be forced to pay the $8 million for 2016. Culliver was suspended one game, reportedly connected to his hit-and-run incident while a member of the 49ers. His contract reportedly included a clause that would negate the guaranteed money if he was suspended in connection with that incident.
Culliver tore the ACL in his right knee in November, so it is no surprise the team would release him at this point. He could be ready for the fall, but at $8 million it is no surprise Washington would part ways. This followed a 2013 ACL tear in his left knee.
I don't expect the 49ers to pursue him, even given Trent Baalke's fetish for torn ACLs. The team drafted Will Redmond, Rashard Robinson, and Prince Charles Iworah this past weekend. Redmond tore his ACL last October, but is expected to be competing for the nickel role this year. Robinson has not played football in 18 months due to a variety of disciplinary issues. Iworah is a raw talent, but put up ridiculous numbers in the pre-draft process. The 49ers already have a lot of talent competing for limited opportunities, so I don't see Culliver getting a call.