The Rams can save $3 million in 2018 by parting with Austin, who comes with an $8 million cap hit and a $5 million dead cap, according to Spotrac. If he’s still on the team by March 16, Austin is paid a $5 million roster bonus.
The “only reason” Austin might keep his roster spot is because just 37.5 percent of his $8 million salary/bonuses would come off the books this year, as opposed to 100 percent in 2019.