The contract was supposed to have the Raiders' top corner signed through the 2011 season, but a clause dictated that if he played in fewer plays in 2010 than 2009 or didn't improve his interception total from '09 to '10, then his deal would be voided. It also stated the Raiders can't put the franchise tag on Asomugha, making him available to the highest bidder.
So, the obvious question being asked in every single NFL city on Monday morning is whether Asomugha can fit into a team's future plans.
When it comes to the Patriots, it's a rather enticing idea to think of Asomugha lining up on the opposite side of Rookie of the Year candidate Devin McCourty. The rook was second in the league in interceptions, despite the rotation of Kyle Arrington and Darius Butler on the other side of him. With McCourty and Asomugha (as well as a healthy Leigh Bodden) on the roster, opposing teams would be hard-pressed to get much going in the passing game. Add that to an already-imposing run defense, and you might be envisioning one of the best defenses in football.
That, however, is fantasy land. At this point, there's not even a guarantee that there will be football in 2011. While a lockout is unlikely, there won't be too many teams eager to start throwing millions of dollars at players when the status of the league is so uncertain. And of all the teams that are expected to take a moderate approach, the Patriots would have to be at or near the top of that list.
Even the Raiders, a team not exactly known for making wise long-term decisions, said they'd like to "wait on the ramifications of the new CBA" before making any decisions regarding re-signing Asomugha.
Still, like any other team, the Patriots will be excited about the idea of adding an all-world talent like Asomugha. His stats from this season barely exist (19 tackles, six passes defensed, no interceptions), but that's because teams rarely even throw at him. According to STATS LLC, the cornerback was targeted just 33 times this season, allowing 13 completions in 14 games for 205 yards and zero touchdowns.
The Patriots make smart, calculated decisions. Robert Kraft and Bill Belichick aren't known for breaking the bank whenever the opportunity arises, and with three of the first 33 picks in April's draft, the team will have numerous other options that are much less expensive.
That's not to say Asomugha won't get his money from somebody — just don't expect it to come from the Patriots.
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