Darnell Dockett contract: Details and 49ers salary cap implications

Prior to the start of free agency, the San Francisco 49ers added defensive tackle Darnell Dockett. The Arizona Cardinals had released him to clear cap space, with the reported hope of bringing him back at a bit of a discount. That did not work out, and Dockett was not overly pleased with that result.

After a little bit of a wait, we finally have some news on Dockett's contract. Jason Hurley was able to sort through the figures, and give us some more context about the defensive tackle's deal.

Dockett did not receive a signing bonus. Instead, he got $2 million of his first year salary guaranteed. He is due to receive a $3.25M base salary in 2015, and $2.75M base salary in 2016. He will also receive $250,000 roster bonuses in 2015 and 2016 if he is on the roster Week 1 of each season. Finally, Dockett can earn $500,000 in workout bonuses in each of 2015 and 2016. The final result is cap hits of $4 million and $3.5 million in 2015 and 2016.

In getting that $2 million in 2015 guaranteed money, Dockett is effectively guaranteed this year's $250,000 roster bonus. His deal breaks down as follows:

2015

Base salary: $3,250,000
Roster bonus: $250,000
Workout bonus: $500,000
Cap hit: $4,000,000

2016

Base salary: $2,750,000
Roster bonus: $250,000
Workout bonus: $500,000
Cap hit: $3,500,000