DaBruinz said:
Actually, we DO know the numbers. Chayut was kind enough to BLAB them to Wrong Bogus the weekend before camp started. It was a 3 year extension that averaged 6.25 million (total 18.75 million) that paid Branch 9 million over the last 2 years of the extension. That also meant that Branch would be seeing 9.75 million this year.
Also, even if it averaged to 5 million a year, Branch hasn't proven he can do it consistently. He's been injured for 3 of the 4 years.
Sorry, Deion is doing the STUPID thing and he really has absolutely no leverage because the Patriots can fine him 14K a day and not give him his contract extension. If Branch holds out for more than 75 days, he will start owing the Patriots money.
What YOU and Branch and Branch's ignorant agent fail to understand is that the Patriots do NOT have to offer Branch an extension (though they did). And they offered one that would pay Branch what he is worth at this point in time. Unfortunately, you seem to have a hard time understanding that concept.
This should be the point and focus of this thread. Well put and right on.
What I cannot understand is why is this not a fair deal - all things considered?? Pats do not have to offer these dollars, but they did and it seems to me to be quite a nice offer. I have not seem one case made, here or in the media that can sway my opinion away from thinking these numbers are just about right - all things considered.
When I say all things considered I mean...
Why is Branch not considering the Pats do not have to offer him this at all. Why is Branch not realizing he is only a top 15 receiver and as such, these numbers are fair.
Why is his agent spilling his guts to the media (the fact that he shut up lately, may be the only positive sign I can think of).
Why doesn't Deion realize he can be franchised next year meaning he is ours this and next year. If that happens, comparing the deal he won't sign - with what the next two years of hardball will mean - how can he win?
This holdout cannot be good for his image or his endorsement potential.
He said things in the spring that he is totally turning his back on - such as his appreciation of Patriots opportunity provided when they drafted him higher that anyone thought he should be, which led to more of a signing bonus and a better contract.
Sign the deal Deion - you are straining the goodwill we have for you as badly as Smith strained his hammy.