After being released by the Pittsburgh Steelers, there was some question as to what James Harrison would receive on the open market. As it turns out, his two-year deal with the Cincinnati Bengals will pay him less than what he could have earned next season in Pittsburgh.
James Harrison’s contract worth $4.45 million over 2 years with Bengals
James Harrison’s contract details are in, and Cincinnati appears to have gotten a bargain.
Gregory Shamus
Prior to releasing him, the Steelers attempted to renegotiate Harrison’s contract, offering him $4.5 million for 2013. Harrison refused to take a pay cut, was released and signed a two-year deal with the Bengals, which is worth $4.45 million, according to Joe Reedy of of the Cincinnati Enquirer. Had he taken Pittsburgh’s offer, Harrison could have made $6.57 million next season if he achieved certain incentives.
While Harrison may have ended up with less money by refusing the paycut, Cincinnati could come away with a steal, if the 34-year old linebacker can stay healthy. Harrison's deal includes a $1.2 million signing bonus, according to Joel Corry of The National Football Post. Harrison will make $3 million in 2013 and count $2.3 million against the Bengals' salary cap.
When healthy, Harrison was still a productive player last season. If he remains that way throughout the two-year deal, Cincinnati will reap the benefits. If Harrison is unable to produce, the Bengals can release him following the 2013 season with only a minimal salary cap hit in 2014.
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