FanPost

Antoine Winfield will be cheap next year

http://www.1500espn.com/sportswire/Clause_triggered_in_Antoine_Winfields_contract_reducing_2012_salary121211

Pretty good news, in my opinion. I love Antoine, but it would have been hard to swallow 7 million for his services. Hopefully we can use that extra 4 million for some more secondary help.

If Antoine Winfield returns with the Minnesota Vikings next season, he'll do so at a bargain rate.

Winfield confirmed on Monday the injuries that limited him to five games this season triggered a playing time-based clause in his contract that will significantly reduce his base salary in 2012.

Originially on the books for $7 million, Winfield's scheduled base salary next season is now $3 million -- a more team-friendly figure for a 13-year veteran who will turn 35 in June.

"My agent discussed that," Winfield said. "Being 34 years old and starting is rare. That's why we put it in there."

Winfield's contract runs through 2013, which his scheduled base salary is $7.25 million. That number could be reduced, too, depending what role he ends up claiming once he recovers from his latest injury.

This FanPost was created by a registered user of The Daily Norseman, and does not necessarily reflect the views of the staff of the site. However, since this is a community, that view is no less important.