I have to have a tooth pulled that is cracked. Affording an implant I may not be able to do, I guess a bridge would be best? What would be the downside to that. Thje tooth is on the top in the middle where I chew a lot.

When a tooth is removed the bone continues to resorb for years to come that is why it's best to do an implant to keep the integrity of the bone especially if it is in an area that can be seen when you smile. If cost is a factor a full coverage bridge is usually not that much less than in implant. If the teeth on either side of the tooth being removed have never had a filling or have a small one surface filling it would be ideal to not have them cut down to place the supporting crowns of the bridge over since healthy tooth structure would have to be removed.
You really need to be sure you know what the process is, length of time to complete and cost of each procedure is to make a real educated decision.