You remember the children’s story of the three bears? Now comes the sports version involving three of the Chicago Bears: RB Thomas Jones, linebacker Lance Briggs and cornerback Nathan Vasher.
All three players have come off very good seasons and want contract extensions. But GM Jerry De Angelo has made it clear that the Bears will not renegotiate any contract for a player with less than two years professional experience. That has been the Bears policy.
I have no doubt that the “three bears” will be with the team at the start of training camp, which starts in a few weeks. They might grumble and grouse, but they’ll be there.
I’m no expert, but it seems to me that once you sign a contract, you are bound by that contract. If you really want to earn what you think you deserve or whatever the market value is, then perhaps the best tactic is to keep playing heads-up, quality football. Be consistent and show your worth on the field, not with your mouth. You gotta pay your dues. Most of the time, it takes more than one good season on the field to get what you deserve.
In this day and age, being a backup may not be such a bad deal. With so many player injuries and inadequate play from the starters, it’s possible to move back into a starting role much faster than you can say “Monday morning quarterback.” Until then, I say “shut up and play.” I’m a big believer in hard work, perseverance and patience. These qualities often do pay dividends in the end. Honor your commitments first. Show your team that you are willing to honor your commitment to them according to the terms of your contract, even if you are not happy with the deal. They, in turn, will honor their commitment to you – or at least, they should. If they don’t, then by all means, find a new home with another NFL team.
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