NFL Draft question (1 Viewer)

[Deranged Hermit]

I've always wondered this, but never asked: If the team with the first pick in the draft signs their pick before the draft (like it appears the Fins will be doing with Jake Long), can the team with the second pick begin contract talks with the player they want to take? My guess is no because of some loophole, but I know I would at least start floating numbers out there to get the ball rolling if I had the second pick.

 

[obxlegends]

I've always wondered this, but never asked: If the team with the first pick in the draft signs their pick before the draft (like it appears the Fins will be doing with Jake Long), can the team with the second pick begin contract talks with the player they want to take? My guess is no because of some loophole, but I know I would at least start floating numbers out there to get the ball rolling if I had the second pick.

Any team can talk contract with a player I'm sure, but they can not sign as they don't have their rights until Miami officially makes their selection.This is my best guess.

 

[Bankerguy]

I believe the 2nd team can start to negotiate and sign a deal if they wish. I have no proof or link. Just my 0.02.

 

[Chaos Commish]

Your guess is correct. It's a nice bonus of picking first, but not second, which could lead to third and fourth etc.

eta -- I misunderstood. First pick can be signed prior to the draft. Second cannot. As for negotiating, I'm not sure, but it seems the 2nd selection is almost always "a surprise" so I would guess against negotiations.

 

[Jeff Pasquino]

Anyone can have an "agreement in principle", but nothing is ironclad. (beyond #1)

If the agent for the #2 player agrees in principle and then bails on that, he'll be on the outs with many owners / GMs and hurt his players.

 

[Deranged Hermit]

Anyone can have an "agreement in principle", but nothing is ironclad. (beyond #1)If the agent for the #2 player agrees in principle and then bails on that, he'll be on the outs with many owners / GMs and hurt his players.

Thanks everyone. If I were the Rams, I'd start talking to Chris Long and his agent right now than. It seems foolish not to.....