NFL gamers can say they need sure issues from a group or their subsequent vacation spot, however Sunday’s collection of strikes ought to show one factor issues most on the subject of deciding on a group.
What, precisely is that one factor?
To cite Corridor of Fame huge receiver Randy Moss: “Straight cash, homie.“
In different phrases, cash.
Cash is the good equalizer between group and participant, and if the group is prepared to offer out sufficient of it, it is going to doubtless clean over no matter concern the participant may need.
We noticed it big-time with Cleveland Browns EDGE rusher Myles Garrett, and to a smaller diploma with DK Metcalf reportedly going to the Pittsburgh Steelers and getting a brand new $150M contract extension.
Based mostly on what we heard about what these gamers needed — or had been rumored to need — neither choice appeared sensible when the day started.
In Garrett’s case, he began the offseason by requesting a commerce out of Cleveland as a result of he needed an opportunity to chase down a Tremendous Bowl and play for a successful group. There was no subtlety in his public request, and it appeared like his thoughts was made up on what he needed.
Then the Browns put a contract on the desk that will make him the very best paid non-quarterback within the NFL, and immediately he was again on board with a “Cleveland to Canton” profession path. Nothing concerning the Browns scenario has modified between February and now. They nonetheless shouldn’t have a quarterback. They nonetheless have a roster that gained three video games a yr in the past. They nonetheless appear to be they’re distant from a championship.
However now Garrett has a deal that guarantees him $123M and averages more than $40M per year. An individual can put up with a variety of dropping for that amount of money.
In Metcalf’s case, phrase surfaced this weekend that he was in search of a group with quarterback stability and a hotter local weather.
Metcalf’s illustration clarified after the truth that he by no means mentioned something about local weather on his listing of needs, and that what he actually needed was a brand new contract and an opportunity to compete.