Who is Bryant Gumbel?

[matt770]

I hate to say it, but Gumbel is right.

 

NFL players have gotten shafted for years.

 

Imagine playing by far the most dangerous (legitimate) sport out there. Knowing that your career could very easily end on the next play if (more likely, when) some 300 lb guy rolls up on your leg or someone gives you a helmet to helmet shot and you're paralyzed for life. Then, you get your measly signign bonus (not much unless you're Peyton Manning or Donovan McNabb), and you're told to go packing and have a nice life.

 

They get paid handsomely to take those risks. More than enough to save for retirement, or for an education (if they didn't get one in college) to start a second career after the NFL. As for getting injured, no one is twisting their arms to play the game. And the vast majority of players don't get paralyzed. Many do have nagging issues like arthritis, but again, they know the risks going in. If they aren't smart enough to save and invest all that money, it's their own fault.

 

How many baseball players do you see carted off the field on stretchers with neck braces on? Not many. Yet these guys have guaranteed contracts and football players do not. It's a disgrace.

 

Jason Giambi uses steroids, all but admits to it, goes off them, shrinks to half his original size, goes into an historic batting slump - but the Yankees can't cut him because he is guaranteed $82 million. Onterrio Smith smokes a doob and gets caught with a prosthetic weeener and he's banned from football. Fair?

 

MLB has become a joke. Many people don't watch anymore, myself included. Why should the NFL model themselves after a system that doesn't work? You just pointed out the ridiculous situation with Giambi...should he be treated like he has been, or more like Onterrio?

 

Luckily for the Yankees organization (and probably with the help of the Yankees organization), Giambi was able to find a new undetectable substance to shoot into his buttocks so that they could recoup some of that $82 million.

 

Onterrio might as well be flipping burgers.

 

Which sport is sending the correct message to its players and fans about acceptable behavior?

 

The NFL makes more money than any other professional sports league. They rape the players financially. The owners are sitting on a gold mine.

 

If I represented the NFL Players Association, they would all have guaranteed contracts and there would be no salary cap. That might upset the balance of power, but too bad - the players are getting shafted right now, no two ways about it.

 

Riiiiiiight....let's throw parity out the window. The big market teams get all the talent while the small market teams struggle year in and year out. Why should MLB be the only joke sport? Let's lower the bar for all sports, and take away the best aspects of the NFL game and make it a joke too. Also I fail to see how getting paid $500,000 to 5 million or more per year to play a game is considered rape. The guy flipping burgers makes a tiny fraction of that and often doesn't even have health insurance. A pro athlete has every opportunity to hire financial advisers to take care of that fat salary and ensure they have a lucrative retirement. If they fail to do so, and their career is cut short because of injury, well that was a stupid move. No one needs 7 cars and a 15,000 SF house.

[rattsass]

Gumbel is a waste of human flesh. He continues to amaze me with his level of stupidity.

 

The problem is that since he gave up his job on morning television he isn't getting enough attention to feed his overblown ego, so he feels the need to say shockingly stupid things like this so people will remember who he is.

 

Bryant, we remember you. And we still think you are a dumbass!

[Bronco Billy]

Prove this statement.

 

 

Gladly, since either your search engine must be down or you are in complete disbelief through ignorance of my claim.

 

LINK

ARTICLE XII

 

INJURY PROTECTION

 

Section 1. Qualification: A player qualifying under the following criteria will receive an injury protection benefit in accordance with Section 2 below:

(a) The player must have been physically unable, because of a severe football injury in an NFL game or practice, to participate in all or part of his Club’s last game of the season of injury, as certified by the Club physician following a physical examination after the last game; or the player must have undergone Club authorized surgery in the off-season following the season of injury; and

 

( The player must have undergone whatever reasonable and customary rehabilitation treatment his Club required of him during the off season following the season of injury; and

 

© The player must have failed the pre season physical examination given by the Club physician for the season following the season of injury because of such injury and as a result his Club must have terminated his contract for the season following the season of injury. This pre season physical may be given by the Club physician prior to the beginning of pre season camp, so long as such fact is clearly communicated to the player at the time of the physical exam. The past understanding of the parties concerning a Club releasing a player who otherwise qualifies under (a) and ( above prior to the pre season physical examination will apply during the term of this Agreement (see Appendix .

Section 2. Benefit: Effective after the execution of this Agreement, a player qualifying under Section 1 above will receive an amount equal to 50% of his contract salary for the season following the season of injury, up to a maximum payment of $150,000 for players released pursuant to Section 1© above in League Year 1993, unless he has individually negotiated more injury protection or a larger guaranteed salary into that contract. This amount shall be increased to $175,000 in the 1994-96 League Years, to $200,000 for the 1997-99 League Years, to $225,000 for the 2000-02 LeagueYears, and to $250,000 for the 2003-04 League Years. A player will receive no amount of any contract covering any season subsequent to the season following the season of injury, except if he has individually negotiated injury protection into that contract. The benefit will be paid to the player in equal weekly installments commencing no later than the date of the first regular season game, which benefit payments will cease if the player signs a contract for that season with another Club. A player will not be entitled to such benefit more than once during his playing career in the NFL, and such benefit shall be reduced by any salary guaranteed to the player for the season following the season of injury.

 

GROUP INSURANCE

 

Section 1. Group Insurance Benefits: Effective after the ratification of this Agreement, players will receive group insurance benefits, consisting of life insurance, medical, and dental benefits, as follows:

 

(a) Life Insurance: For the 1993-99 League Years, a rookie player will be entitled to $100,000 in coverage, and a veteran player’s coverage will be increased by $20,000 for each Credited Season (as defined by the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Plan) up to a maximum of $200,000 in coverage. For the 2000-02 League Years, a rookie player will be entitled to $150,000 in coverage, and a veteran player’s coverage will be increased by $30,000 for each Credited Season (as defined by the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Plan) up to a maximum of $300,000 in coverage.

 

( Medical: Subject to the deductible, 80% of the first $3,000, and 100% thereafter, of qualifying expenses (as defined in existing insurance contract provisions) for all players and their eligible dependents are covered. Each player is required to pay an annual deductible of $200 per individual per plan year and $400 per family per plan year, with a maximum out of pocket expense of $800 per plan year (including the deductible) for each covered individual. The maximum lifetime benefits paid on behalf of a covered individual will be $2 million.

 

© Dental: Usual, customary and reasonable (“UCR”) dental expenses for all players and their eligible dependents will be reimbursed to players pursuant to the following schedule:

1) Preventive care paid at 100% of UCR,

2) General services paid at 85% of UCR, and

3) Major services paid at 50% of UCR.

Each player is required to pay an annual deductible of $50 per individual per plan year and $100 per family per plan year. The maximum benefit payable is $2,000 per covered individual per plan year.

*Extension Agreement 2/25/98

(d) Insurance Benefits for Vested Players: Players vested under the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Plan who are released or otherwise sever employment on or before May 1 in a calendar year will continue to receive insurance coverage under this Article until the first regular season game of the season that begins later in that calendar year. Players vested under the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Plan who are released or otherwise sever employment after May 1 in a calendar year will continue to receive insurance coverage under this Article until the first regular season game of the season that begins in the following calendar year. Group insurance benefits are guaranteed during the term of this Agreement unless reduced by the NFLPA pursuant to Article XLVI (Player Benefit Costs), Section 1, or required to be modified by law.

 

 

Section 2. Extended Post-Career Medical And Dental Insurance: The medical and dental insurance benefits described in Section 1 of this Article XLIX are continued, subject to limitations described in Section 3 below, as follows:

 

(a) Players vested under the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Plan who are released or otherwise sever employment at any time during the period from January 1, 1996 through May 1, 1996 will continue to receive the benefits described in Subsections 1( and 1© above until the first regular season game of the 1997 season.

 

( Players vested under the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Plan who are released or otherwise sever employment at any time after the first regular season game in the 1996 season, and before the first regular season game of the 1998 season, will continue to receive the benefits described in Subsections 1( and 1

 

© above for twenty-four (24) months beyond the date the benefits described in Subsections 1( and 1© above terminate in accordance with Section 1(d) of this Article.

 

© Players vested under the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Plan who are released or otherwise sever employment at any time after the first regular season game in the 1998 season or at any time thereafter prior to the expiration or termination of this Agreement, will continue to receive the benefits described in Subsections 1( and 1© above for thirty-six (36) months beyond the date the benefits described in Subsections 1( and 1© above terminate in accordance with Section 1(d) of this Article.

 

(d) All rights under federal law of the players and their spouses and dependents to elect COBRA continuation coverage will commence upon the expiration or termination of the period in which the benefits described in Subsections 2(a), 2(, and 2© above are provided, as if such additional benefits had not been provided.

 

SUPPLEMENTAL DISABILITY BENEFITS

 

Section 1. Maintenance: The NFL Player Supplemental Disability Plan, and all past and future amendments thereto as adopted in accordance with the terms of that Plan, are incorporated by reference and made a part of this Agreement; provided, however, that the terms used in such Plan and the definitions of such terms are applicable only to such Plan and shall have no applicability to this Agreement unless the context of this Agreement specifically mandates the use of such term. Such Plan will be continued and maintained in full force and effect during the term of this Agreement.

 

Section 2. Contributions: For the 1993 Plan Year and continuing for each Plan Year thereafter that begins prior to the expiration of the Final League Year, unless modified as described below, contributions will be made to the Supplemental Disability Plan at least quarterly in an amount sufficient to pay estimated benefits and administrative expenses. Contributions, if any, for later Plan Years will be determined pursuant to future collective bargaining agreements, if any. It will be the duty of the fiduciaries of the Supplemental Disability Plan to pursue all available legal remedies in an effort to ensure payment of all contributions due under this Agreement.

 

Section 3. Extension: For each Plan Year that begins both (1) on or after April 1, 2000 and (2) prior to the expiration of the Final League Year, the parties will amend Section 3.1 of the NFL Player Supplemental Disability Plan at the beginning of such Plan Year to provide that a player receiving benefits under Section 5.1(a) of the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Plan will receive a benefit of $14,670 per month for such Plan Year only; a player receiving benefits under Section 5.1( of the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Plan will receive a benefit of $7,167 per month for such Plan Year only; and a player receiving benefits under Section 5.1© of the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Plan will receive a benefit of $5,167 per month for such Plan Year only.

 

PLAYERS’ RIGHTS TO MEDICAL CARE AND TREATMENT

 

Section 1. Club Physician: Each Club will have a board-certified orthopedic surgeon as one of its Club physicians. The cost of medical services rendered by Club physicians will be the responsibility of the respective Clubs. If a Club physician advises a coach or other Club representative of a player’s physical condition which adversely affects the player’s performance or health, the physician will also advise the player. If such condition could be significantly aggravated by continued performance, the physician will advise the player of such fact in writing before the player is again allowed to perform on field activity.

Section 2. Club Trainers: All full time head trainers and assistant trainers hired after the date of execution of this Agreement will be certified by the National Athletic Trainers Association. All part time trainers must work under the direct supervision of a certified trainer.

 

Section 3. Players’ Right to a Second Medical Opinion: A player will have the opportunity to obtain a second medical opinion. As a condition of the responsibility of the Club for the costs of medical services rendered by the physician furnishing the second opinion, the player must (a) consult with the Club physician in advance concerning the other physician; and ( the Club physician must be furnished promptly with a report concerning the diagnosis, examination and course of treatment recommended by the other physician.

Section 4. Players’ Right to a Surgeon of His Choice: A player will have the right to choose the surgeon who will perform surgery provided that: (a) the player will consult unless impossible (e.g., emergency surgery) with the Club physician as to his recommendation as to the need for, the timing of and who should perform the surgery; and ( the player will give due consideration to the Club physician’s recommendations. Any such surgery will be at Club expense; provided, however, that the Club, the Club physician, trainers and any other representative of the Club will not be responsible for or incur any liability (other than the cost of the surgery) for or relating to the adequacy or competency of such surgery or other related medical services rendered in connection with such surgery.

 

Anyone else out there have a package of benefits like this?

[matt770]

I think this logic is flawed.

 

The average NFL player plays 3 or 4 years. So, comparing what they make in a year to what the "average" American makes is meaningless.

 

 

The minimum rookie salary is $477,000. Multiply that by 3 years, you have $1,431,000. If you make $50,000 per year, it would take you 28 years to make that much money.

 

Secondly, they posess a skill that 99.999% of Americans don't have. They are able to perform at a level such that people like me (and millions of others) are willing to pay $70 a ticket 8 times a year to see. And millions of others are willing to sit and watch Bud commercial after Bud commercial in order to see these guys perform.

 

I'm not going to pay $70 to watch you do whatever your job is.

 

No sponsor is going to pay millions of dollars to advertise on a broadcast that shows an accountant fill out tax forms or a garbage man pick up trash cans.

 

It's supply and demand. These guys provide a service that very few people can provide. They deserve not only what they are currently making, but much much more.

 

 

I'm not saying they don't deserve that money. I'm saying they don't deserve a guaranteed contract if they fail to live up their end of the bargain. For every LT or Alexander that comes out of college, there is are 20 guys who never live up to their potential and are out of the NFL in a year or two. You and I aren't paying $70 a ticket to watch them not play, so why should a team pay them anything at all? Aren't the fans better served by having all that money go toward the best players on the field? Or would you rather pay double for your ticket to watch a team who can't afford to field the best roster because they are forced to pay a bunch of scrubs guaranteed money to ride the pine? Are you willing to see the quality of play deteriorate so that every lazy, overhyped, injury prone scrub coming out of college doesn't get "raped" by having his contract terminated because he can't cut it in the pros?????

[Bronco Billy]

Here's some more:

 

LINK

 

NFL, NFLPA agree to improved player benefits

 

 

NEW YORK (July 27, 2006) -- The NFL and the NFL Players Association again have agreed to a series of improvements in NFL player benefits for retired and current players, including significant pension increases and other new benefits for retired players, the NFL and the NFLPA announced.

 

The improvements are a part of the recently extended NFL Collective Bargaining Agreement and will cost approximately $120 million per year, bringing the annual cost of NFL player benefits to $700 million per year. This is the fourth time since 1993 that benefit improvements have been made for both current and retired players.

 

Retired players now receive nearly $60 million per year from the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Retirement Plan. In addition, there are three other funds that provide more than $1 million a year in financial assistance to retired NFL players in need. They are the NFLPA's Players Assistance Trust, the NFL and NFL Alumni Association's Dire Need Fund, and the Pro Football Hall of Fame's Enshrinee Assistance Fund.

 

"We are proud to have the most extensive benefits package in professional sports," said Haronld Henderson, NFL executive vice president of labor relations/chairman of the NFL Management Council. "These improvements are consistent with our commitment in every negotiation to address post-career issues and improve the benefits of retired players. No other industry reaches back like this to take care of former employees."

 

"The current players have great respect for the heritage of the NFL and the former players that have contributed to the league's success," said Gene Upshaw, executive director of the NFLPA. "As they have done on previous occasions, the current players strongly supported the idea of using a portion of their negotiated benefits money to fund improvements for the retired players."

 

Details of the benefit plan improvements that were announced:

 

• Pensions: Pensions of retired players will be increased by 25 percent for the amounts earned before 1982 and by 10 percent for the amounts earned in 1982 and later. The minimum increase for retired players will be $50 per month.

• Widow and Surviving Children Benefit: Benefits will be tripled for the survivors of a player who dies before his retirement benefits begin.

• Number 88 Plan: Beginning next year, players retired under the pension plan will be eligible for payment of certain medical and custodial expenses, whether provided at home or in an institution, that are a result of dementia, including Alzheimer's, regardless of the age when care becomes necessary. The benefit will pay the cost of providing up to $88,000 per year for institutional care or up to $50,000 per year for in-home nursing care. There also is agreement to fund research on dementia. The benefit is named in honor of Pro Football Hall of Famer John Mackey.

• Tuition Reimbursement Plan: For players with at least five credited seasons who retire after the 2006 season, the plan will provide up to $15,000 per year for tuition expenses for the first three years after the player leaves football. Previously, this benefit was available to active players only.

• Health Reimbursement Account: A new Health Reimbursement Account will be created for current players for use when their NFL health insurance expires (currently four or five years after retirement). The accounts will begin for players who have three credited seasons at $75,000 and increase by $25,000 per year for up to 12 seasons. For example, a 12-year veteran will leave the NFL with a $300,000 health reimbursement account. The accounts can be used to fund post-career medical insurance, including the COBRA premium, and to pay other medical expenses, both for the player and his dependents.

Other CBA benefits for players include a 401K savings plan, annuity program, insurance, severance pay and disability benefits.

 

 

LINK

 

 

 

Financial Education

 

 

The Financial Education Program provides players with valuable knowledge to manage their personal finances and improve financial decision-making. The objective of the program is to ensure the longer-term financial stability of players throughout the league. The program offers players resources and a realistic perspective on the current economic environment. The non-credit seminars are offered during the year and teach players about cash management, insurance, tax planning, estate planning, investments, retirement planning and other related topics.

 

 

Proper management

 

NFL Business Management and Entrepreneurial Program: The NFL Business Management and Entrepreneurial Program is a joint effort between the league, the NFL Players Association and premiere graduate business schools. The custom programs at top-rated business schools seek to improve players' ability to evaluate business opportunities, and consist of workshops, stimulating discussions, practical knowledge and its application for NFL players interested in owning, operating or building their own businesses. Topics covered include: personal investments, business plans review and assessment, operations and cash-flow management, and recruiting, hiring and managing new people. Players will be provided the opportunity to look at realistic business scenarios and dissect opportunities they may be considering.

[Bronco Billy]

 

Second, was Bryant Gumbel saying anything the majority of veteran players don't already think about Upshaw?

 

 

 

Please provide documentation of the veracity of this statement.

[Vet]

Gladly, since either your search engine must be down or you are in complete disbelief through ignorance of my claim.

 

LINK

ARTICLE XII

 

INJURY PROTECTION

 

Section 1. Qualification: A player qualifying under the following criteria will receive an injury protection benefit in accordance with Section 2 below:

(a) The player must have been physically unable, because of a severe football injury in an NFL game or practice, to participate in all or part of his Club’s last game of the season of injury, as certified by the Club physician following a physical examination after the last game; or the player must have undergone Club authorized surgery in the off-season following the season of injury; and

 

( The player must have undergone whatever reasonable and customary rehabilitation treatment his Club required of him during the off season following the season of injury; and

 

© The player must have failed the pre season physical examination given by the Club physician for the season following the season of injury because of such injury and as a result his Club must have terminated his contract for the season following the season of injury. This pre season physical may be given by the Club physician prior to the beginning of pre season camp, so long as such fact is clearly communicated to the player at the time of the physical exam. The past understanding of the parties concerning a Club releasing a player who otherwise qualifies under (a) and ( above prior to the pre season physical examination will apply during the term of this Agreement (see Appendix .

Section 2. Benefit: Effective after the execution of this Agreement, a player qualifying under Section 1 above will receive an amount equal to 50% of his contract salary for the season following the season of injury, up to a maximum payment of $150,000 for players released pursuant to Section 1© above in League Year 1993, unless he has individually negotiated more injury protection or a larger guaranteed salary into that contract. This amount shall be increased to $175,000 in the 1994-96 League Years, to $200,000 for the 1997-99 League Years, to $225,000 for the 2000-02 LeagueYears, and to $250,000 for the 2003-04 League Years. A player will receive no amount of any contract covering any season subsequent to the season following the season of injury, except if he has individually negotiated injury protection into that contract. The benefit will be paid to the player in equal weekly installments commencing no later than the date of the first regular season game, which benefit payments will cease if the player signs a contract for that season with another Club. A player will not be entitled to such benefit more than once during his playing career in the NFL, and such benefit shall be reduced by any salary guaranteed to the player for the season following the season of injury.

 

GROUP INSURANCE

 

Section 1. Group Insurance Benefits: Effective after the ratification of this Agreement, players will receive group insurance benefits, consisting of life insurance, medical, and dental benefits, as follows:

 

(a) Life Insurance: For the 1993-99 League Years, a rookie player will be entitled to $100,000 in coverage, and a veteran player’s coverage will be increased by $20,000 for each Credited Season (as defined by the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Plan) up to a maximum of $200,000 in coverage. For the 2000-02 League Years, a rookie player will be entitled to $150,000 in coverage, and a veteran player’s coverage will be increased by $30,000 for each Credited Season (as defined by the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Plan) up to a maximum of $300,000 in coverage.

 

( Medical: Subject to the deductible, 80% of the first $3,000, and 100% thereafter, of qualifying expenses (as defined in existing insurance contract provisions) for all players and their eligible dependents are covered. Each player is required to pay an annual deductible of $200 per individual per plan year and $400 per family per plan year, with a maximum out of pocket expense of $800 per plan year (including the deductible) for each covered individual. The maximum lifetime benefits paid on behalf of a covered individual will be $2 million.

 

© Dental: Usual, customary and reasonable (“UCR”) dental expenses for all players and their eligible dependents will be reimbursed to players pursuant to the following schedule:

1) Preventive care paid at 100% of UCR,

2) General services paid at 85% of UCR, and

3) Major services paid at 50% of UCR.

Each player is required to pay an annual deductible of $50 per individual per plan year and $100 per family per plan year. The maximum benefit payable is $2,000 per covered individual per plan year.

*Extension Agreement 2/25/98

(d) Insurance Benefits for Vested Players: Players vested under the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Plan who are released or otherwise sever employment on or before May 1 in a calendar year will continue to receive insurance coverage under this Article until the first regular season game of the season that begins later in that calendar year. Players vested under the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Plan who are released or otherwise sever employment after May 1 in a calendar year will continue to receive insurance coverage under this Article until the first regular season game of the season that begins in the following calendar year. Group insurance benefits are guaranteed during the term of this Agreement unless reduced by the NFLPA pursuant to Article XLVI (Player Benefit Costs), Section 1, or required to be modified by law.

Section 2. Extended Post-Career Medical And Dental Insurance: The medical and dental insurance benefits described in Section 1 of this Article XLIX are continued, subject to limitations described in Section 3 below, as follows:

 

(a) Players vested under the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Plan who are released or otherwise sever employment at any time during the period from January 1, 1996 through May 1, 1996 will continue to receive the benefits described in Subsections 1( and 1© above until the first regular season game of the 1997 season.

 

( Players vested under the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Plan who are released or otherwise sever employment at any time after the first regular season game in the 1996 season, and before the first regular season game of the 1998 season, will continue to receive the benefits described in Subsections 1( and 1

 

© above for twenty-four (24) months beyond the date the benefits described in Subsections 1( and 1© above terminate in accordance with Section 1(d) of this Article.

 

© Players vested under the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Plan who are released or otherwise sever employment at any time after the first regular season game in the 1998 season or at any time thereafter prior to the expiration or termination of this Agreement, will continue to receive the benefits described in Subsections 1( and 1© above for thirty-six (36) months beyond the date the benefits described in Subsections 1( and 1© above terminate in accordance with Section 1(d) of this Article.

 

(d) All rights under federal law of the players and their spouses and dependents to elect COBRA continuation coverage will commence upon the expiration or termination of the period in which the benefits described in Subsections 2(a), 2(, and 2© above are provided, as if such additional benefits had not been provided.

 

SUPPLEMENTAL DISABILITY BENEFITS

 

Section 1. Maintenance: The NFL Player Supplemental Disability Plan, and all past and future amendments thereto as adopted in accordance with the terms of that Plan, are incorporated by reference and made a part of this Agreement; provided, however, that the terms used in such Plan and the definitions of such terms are applicable only to such Plan and shall have no applicability to this Agreement unless the context of this Agreement specifically mandates the use of such term. Such Plan will be continued and maintained in full force and effect during the term of this Agreement.

 

Section 2. Contributions: For the 1993 Plan Year and continuing for each Plan Year thereafter that begins prior to the expiration of the Final League Year, unless modified as described below, contributions will be made to the Supplemental Disability Plan at least quarterly in an amount sufficient to pay estimated benefits and administrative expenses. Contributions, if any, for later Plan Years will be determined pursuant to future collective bargaining agreements, if any. It will be the duty of the fiduciaries of the Supplemental Disability Plan to pursue all available legal remedies in an effort to ensure payment of all contributions due under this Agreement.

 

Section 3. Extension: For each Plan Year that begins both (1) on or after April 1, 2000 and (2) prior to the expiration of the Final League Year, the parties will amend Section 3.1 of the NFL Player Supplemental Disability Plan at the beginning of such Plan Year to provide that a player receiving benefits under Section 5.1(a) of the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Plan will receive a benefit of $14,670 per month for such Plan Year only; a player receiving benefits under Section 5.1( of the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Plan will receive a benefit of $7,167 per month for such Plan Year only; and a player receiving benefits under Section 5.1© of the Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle Plan will receive a benefit of $5,167 per month for such Plan Year only.

 

PLAYERS’ RIGHTS TO MEDICAL CARE AND TREATMENT

 

Section 1. Club Physician: Each Club will have a board-certified orthopedic surgeon as one of its Club physicians. The cost of medical services rendered by Club physicians will be the responsibility of the respective Clubs. If a Club physician advises a coach or other Club representative of a player’s physical condition which adversely affects the player’s performance or health, the physician will also advise the player. If such condition could be significantly aggravated by continued performance, the physician will advise the player of such fact in writing before the player is again allowed to perform on field activity.

Section 2. Club Trainers: All full time head trainers and assistant trainers hired after the date of execution of this Agreement will be certified by the National Athletic Trainers Association. All part time trainers must work under the direct supervision of a certified trainer.

 

Section 3. Players’ Right to a Second Medical Opinion: A player will have the opportunity to obtain a second medical opinion. As a condition of the responsibility of the Club for the costs of medical services rendered by the physician furnishing the second opinion, the player must (a) consult with the Club physician in advance concerning the other physician; and ( the Club physician must be furnished promptly with a report concerning the diagnosis, examination and course of treatment recommended by the other physician.

Section 4. Players’ Right to a Surgeon of His Choice: A player will have the right to choose the surgeon who will perform surgery provided that: (a) the player will consult unless impossible (e.g., emergency surgery) with the Club physician as to his recommendation as to the need for, the timing of and who should perform the surgery; and ( the player will give due consideration to the Club physician’s recommendations. Any such surgery will be at Club expense; provided, however, that the Club, the Club physician, trainers and any other representative of the Club will not be responsible for or incur any liability (other than the cost of the surgery) for or relating to the adequacy or competency of such surgery or other related medical services rendered in connection with such surgery.

 

Anyone else out there have a package of benefits like this?

 

 

 

I do.

 

And my job doesn't entail me having to be clobbered by 350 lb linemen.

 

The dollar amounts in this clause above are chump change.

 

I know people who make seven figures a year who can barely tie their own shoes. Turn on CNBC and you'll see geeks with guaranteed contracts that make money equal to the average NFL player and can't pick a stock to save their lives.

 

Bottom line is, NFL players get ripped off relative to the other major sports.

 

Stephon Marbury does nothing but bring losing wherever he goes, yet the Knicks can't get rid of him because he's guaranteed something like $100 million. Carl Pavanno signs a $70 million deal with the Yankees and has pitched like 6 innings in 2 years (yeah...I know, I'm exaggerating but you get the point).

 

Why is Curtis Martin agreeing to a veteran minimum salary? Why not just sit back and collect his dough? The NBA or MLB players associations would never ALLOW someone like Curtis Martin to take a pay cut.

 

Gumbels point is right on the mark. NFL players are getting absolutely screwed relative to the other major sports.

Edited August 22, 2006 by Vet

[MustOfBeenDrunk]

Gumbel is punk

[Azazello1313]

why does race have to be an issue with this?

 

 

please. why does race have to be an issue with a guy who says the winter olympics suck because everybody's white? why does race have to be an issue with a guy who talks about the black head of the players association being domesticated and led around on a leash? with gumbel, EVERYHTHING is about race, because apparently that's the only way he feels like he can shake his oreo image.

[godtomsatan]

Please provide documentation of the veracity of this statement.

 

 

It was a question you Crazy Little Thing Called Love.

[matt770]

Bottom line is, NFL players get ripped off relative to the other major sports.

 

 

A more accurate statement would be, other major sports teams get ripped off by their players relative to the NFL. The NFL pays their players very well, but only the ones who produce. That's how the rest of the employment market works, why should football be any different?

 

You already pointed out how stupid the MLB and NBA policies are, yet you seem to imply that the NFL should be more like them??? Don't you see that the NFL is the most popular sport because of the parity created by the salary cap and non guaranteed money?

[godtomsatan]

please. why does race have to be an issue with a guy who says the winter olympics suck because everybody's white? why does race have to be an issue with a guy who talks about the black head of the players association being domesticated and led around on a leash? with gumbel, EVERYHTHING is about race, because apparently that's the only way he feels like he can shake his oreo image.

 

 

He wasn't the one that made it an issue.

[Azazello1313]

Bottom line is, NFL players get ripped off relative to the other major sports.

 

 

well, it's apples and oranges. the NFL has way bigger rosters and much more turnover. so the minimum salary is less, and so are some of the other benefits. that's just the nature of the game, and it makes complete sense.

[Azazello1313]

He wasn't the one that made it an issue.

 

yeah, right. just like fuzzy zoeller talking about fried chicken wasn't making tiger woods' race an issue. hey, he just said maybe he'd like some fried chicken.

[Bronco Billy]

It was a question you Crazy Little Thing Called Love.

 

 

That's pretty funny. There's nothing funnier than a smart ass - now if you could just get the "smart" part down.

 

You do know that Upshaw is elected by representatives whom the players select, don't you?

 

 

LINK

 

Article IV, section b:

 

The principal administrative officer shall be its Executive Director. The Executive Director shall be elected at the annual meeting of the Board of Player Representatives for a term of three (3) years and until his successor shall be duly qualified and elected.

[Bronco Billy]

Bottom line is, NFL players get ripped off relative to the other major sports.

 

Stephon Marbury does nothing but bring losing wherever he goes, yet the Knicks can't get rid of him because he's guaranteed something like $100 million. Carl Pavanno signs a $70 million deal with the Yankees and has pitched like 6 innings in 2 years (yeah...I know, I'm exaggerating but you get the point).

 

Why is Curtis Martin agreeing to a veteran minimum salary? Why not just sit back and collect his dough? The NBA or MLB players associations would never ALLOW someone like Curtis Martin to take a pay cut.

 

Gumbels point is right on the mark. NFL players are getting absolutely screwed relative to the other major sports.

 

 

 

You cited examples of what is wrong with the salary structuring of other pro leagues. So your solution to "fixing" the NFL is for the NFL to make mistakes as bad or worse than the other pro leagues?

 

BRILLIANT!

[Bronco Billy]

I do.

 

 

 

 

SURE you do...

 

[matt770]

A more accurate statement would be, other major sports teams get ripped off by their players relative to the NFL. The NFL pays their players very well, but only the ones who produce. That's how the rest of the employment market works, why should football be any different?

 

You already pointed out how stupid the MLB and NBA policies are, yet you seem to imply that the NFL should be more like them??? Don't you see that the NFL is the most popular sport because of the parity created by the salary cap and non guaranteed money?

 

 

 

 

 

Didn't think so....

[Hat Trick]

 

Didn't think so....

 

 

You won't change there minds........they will keep contradicting themselves......the nfl should be like this....but those sports suck......I make bling bling on my insurance

 

 

[spain]

Donkey William bringing it strong in the Huddle today! Now if he could only have accurate information on the Bronco's starting running back from week to week...

[Hat Trick]

Donkey William bringing it strong in the Huddle today! Now if he could only have accurate information on the Bronco's starting running back from week to week...

 

 

He does now, then not so much, but now.....it's Mike Bell and if he fails it's Ron Dayne.....tatum is a COP RB

[Bronco Billy]

Donkey William bringing it strong in the Huddle today! Now if he could only have accurate information on the Bronco's starting running back from week to week...

 

 

 

Sometimes I really hate spain...

 

:mad:

[matt770]

Donkey William bringing it strong in the Huddle today! Now if he could only have accurate information on the Bronco's starting running back from week to week...

 

 

What are the odds of getting Shanahan to join the Huddle and post his latest thoughts on the RB depth chart on an hourly basis? I'm sure DMD would waive the site fee...

 

[Vet]

 

You cited examples of what is wrong with the salary structuring of other pro leagues. So your solution to "fixing" the NFL is for the NFL to make mistakes as bad or worse than the other pro leagues?

 

BRILLIANT!

 

 

No..not at all.

 

And, I don't think that's what Bryant Gumbel was saying either.

 

What I was saying is that NFL players are getting royally screwed relative to the other two major professionial leagues. This, in my opinion, seems undisputable. If you want to argue that ALL professional athletes are overpaid, then that's a completely different argument.

 

The other point I was trying to make is that you can't compare what NFL players, or any athletes for that matter, are making to what the general population is making. These guys have a skill that millions of people are willing to pay to see. Most of us don't.

 

Tom Cruise gets $20 million per movie, whether it's a blockbuster or a bust.

 

Reese Witherspoon got $20 million for "Sweet Home Alabama". Have you seen it? Not unless your wife or girlfriend tied you to the couch you haven't.

 

All guaranteed money.

 

NFL players should have guaranteed contracts. The fact that they don't demonstrates the unions weak position.

 

And as far a racism is concerned, last I checked Gumbel and Upshaw are both black.

[Vet]

 

SURE you do...

 

 

 

jealous?