02-16-2016, 05:13 PM
(02-16-2016, 12:28 PM)fredtoast Wrote: And you can't really blame players for thinking this way. I know people who have left regular "real world" jobs because they felt there was not enough opportunity for advancement.
I remember when we had Anthony Collins on the bench as a back up OT and really needed a guard. Apparently Collins was not tried at OG because he said he didn't want to play there even if it meant a chance at starting over sitting the bench. In the end it worked out for him because he ended up getting paid like an OT in free agency.
As fans we sometimes forget that most of these guys just end up a Bengal because we drafted them. They are employees, not life long fans.
I think you hit it on the head. We must remember that this is a business. Winning is important, but what is more important when you retire? Having been on a winning team, or an extra $7-10 million in the bank? You probably have better stories from a winning team, but that money means that you and your family should be set for life.
The "lifespan" of an NFL player is very short. These guys have to make the most of the opportunity while it exists and no one should blame them for doing so.
