The Patriots have approached Ochocinco about restructuring his contract, according to Liz Mullen of the Sports Business Journal. The exact details of the proposal weren't clear.
Ochocinco is due a base salary of $3 million in 2012 and 2013, which is a hefty amount for a six-time Pro Bowler who had career lows of 15 receptions, 276 yards and one touchdown last season.
Despite the lack of production, Ochocinco was considered a terrific teammate, and he never misplaced the blame for his statistical shortage. Now, the Patriots have asked him to truly show how much he wants to be a part of the organization.
The Patriots' request — assuming it's accepted by Ochocinco, of course — doesn't necessarily mean it's a guarantee Ochocinco will be in New England through the 2012 season. They might simply be trying to move some money around to spend it elsewhere, and the pay cut would make him a more affordable option as he tries to impress the coaches throughout the course of offseason camps with the intent to make the team next season.
Have a question for Jeff Howe? Send it to him via Twitter at @jeffphowe or send it here. He will pick a few questions to answer every week for his mailbag.
