Darnell Dockett Signs With San Francisco 49ers

A long-time member of the Arizona Cardinals is now going to a division rival.

Darnell Dockett, who has been with the Cardinals ever since he was drafted by the club in the third round of the 2004 draft, has signed a contract with the San Francisco 49ers.

The d-lineman signed a two-year, $7.5 million deal with the Niners on Thursday morning. Exactly $4 million of that will be paid this coming season and $2 million of the contract is guaranteed.

About a week back, the Cardinals released Dockett in order to lower his number of $6.8 million that he was scheduled to make for this coming season. The two sides were working on a new deal, but were able to come up with an agreement.

Cardinals fans should have no hard feelings for Dockett. He did what he is supposed to do, go out and get the best contract available for himself. Unfortunately, it was with the Niners, a team that the Cards will have to face four times over the next two years.

To be honest, I’m a bit surprised that the veteran got the contract that he did. Dockett is 34 years old and is coming off a serious knee injury. It’s pretty clear that his best years are behind him, but San Francisco still feels he can be a big part of their rotation on their defensive line.

As for the Cardinals, this isn’t a huge blow, considering the depth they have on the current roster. They have Frostee Rucker under contract for another season and could bring back Tommy Kelly.

Ed Stinson and Kareem Martin were both drafted last season as possible replacements for Dockett down the line as well. They are now going to have to step in a bit sooner than expected when the Cards first drafted them.

With free agency about to kick off, the Cards could always bring in a veteran option as well.

I wish Dockett the best of luck in Frisco, except for when he plays the Cardinals of course. He was a huge part of this franchise for so many years and his leadership will be missed.