OK, after more research into contract details after the flurry of crazy reports this week I thought many of you might be interested in the details and rammifications of Harringtons "impending" release. To the best of my knowledge, here are the keys:

1) Harrington reached an escalator clause in 2004 that changed some terms of his contract.

2) Because of these escalators, Joey is due a roster bonus of $3M on 7/1/05.

3) Also because of these escalators, Joey's base salary rose to $4.95M for 2005.

4) Joeys cap figure has now jumped from $3.28M to nearly $10.5M if he is released before 7/1/05.

5) After 7/1/05, the cap hit would be $8M this year and $5M in 2006.

I'm trying to be as accurate as I can but these escalator clauses are very confusing and I only have access to so much information. Wish I was talking about my own contract here given these numbers.

Thanks Pablo.

Does Joey Ballgame have any performance based bonus? Are they reachable?

wow, maybe you should just try to trade him. I would go as low as a 7th rd and a 12 pack of MGD, but that's it! Anything lower is rippin you guys off.

Hey nitchke, make it a case and we can talk? lol

The exact same thing happens if you try and trade him. The signing bounus excellerates.

The Lions are pretty much stuck with Harrington. That's why Killer's article was really pointless. Even if the Lions want to get rid of Harrington they really can't afford to even if there were other options out there.

Good post Pablo. I can't see them getting rid of him for a number of reasons, including this one.

yes, good post. i don't see anything happening this offseason. it will be telling to watch what happens in fa and the draft to see if the lions do have faith in joey. if they bring in a capable backup and draft a qb in the 4th round or higher then i think you can conclude they are not sold on joey.