[Drift Reality]

I think responses like skinsfan_nn are appropriate here: you have to look at each situation in isolation after factoring other things like the cap, current personnel at each position, the draft and the free agency market.

First off, think about the cap: My thinking is that all three of these guys are probably capable of producing but are they worthwhile at their current salaries? I would say a healthy Springs warrants the salary and the other two do not. So the second question is whether they are willing to negotiate. If not, then I think you could likely see either of them gone after the June cuts because at this point the cap hit won't be monumental for either.

Second: Current personnel at each position understanding that you can't just think about starters but also have to consider depth. I think we have weak depth at linebacker. After Blades, who do we have? I'd say the same thing at DT. In fact, I think you can make an argument that Griffin is the only tackle with any pass rushing capabilities at this point. At cornerback we have two solid players but also no depth. In other words, I don't think any of these units is strong enough to justify an outright cut. It's not like we have a star waiting in the wings at any of these units or have depth at any of these units.

Third, you take into account the market. This is the area I'm probably least knowledgeable about but if free agency or the draft is strong in linebackers and defensive tackles for instance, I think that impacts your thinking on those positions. It looks as if there may be some players along the D-line available in free agency so that may impact the situation with Griffin.

Finally you need to consider chemistry. These guys aren't playing fantasy football. What would the impact be if we were to suddenly cut three guys who are considered leaders on the defensive side of the ball? Are these guys leaders in the locker room? Do they have a positive effect on the younger players?

In general, the question of cutting veterans is a pretty complex one. Just trying to outline some of the considerations.