Rookie Salary Cap: length of contract

[Lamanai]

One aspect of the draft I haven't seen given too much discussion is the length of contracts. Under the old (current) system, players drafted 1-16 can be signed for six years, 17-32 five years and all others for four years. The proposed/reported rookie deal would change that to four years for 1st rounders and three years for all others. There would be a year of RFA.

I think this is quite significant, especially for he 33rd pick. While some think this pick is going to be highly sought after because of the ability of teams to look over the draft board, the reduced length of the contract makes it somewhat less desirable. Teams have to consider if they really want to trade up to 33 for their QB of the future only to see him with his hand out again in three years?

Just something to consider. And if there is no rookie salary cap deal, I can see the Pats making a small trade up to get that extra year (six vs. five)

 

[MDHQ]

One aspect of the draft I haven't seen given too much discussion is the length of contracts. Under the old (current) system, players drafted 1-16 can be signed for six years, 17-32 five years and all others for four years. The proposed/reported rookie deal would change that to four years for 1st rounders and three years for all others. There would be a year of RFA.

I think this is quite significant, especially for he 33rd pick. While some think this pick is going to be highly sought after because of the ability of teams to look over the draft board, the reduced length of the contract makes it somewhat less desirable. Teams have to consider if they really want to trade up to 33 for their QB of the future only to see him with his hand out again in three years?

Just something to consider. And if there is no rookie salary cap deal, I can see the Pats making a small trade up to get that extra year (six vs. five)

The reason its this way is because the top guys are supposed to be superstars but teams started drafting too much on potential, and not actual ability.

 

[mgteich]

I agree that a first rounder is worth more because the possible (likely) loinger contract length. And yes, trading up from 17 to a non-Condon player would likely result in a 6-year contract if the new CBA doesn't change the rules for the 2011 draft.