Chris Cooley speaks out against rookie pay system

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Originally Posted by djnemo65

Why would the NFLPA oppose this? They represent players already in the league right? And they will do nothing but benefit from a scaled rookie salary cap, as it will free up more money for veterans. Since no one is discussing a reduction in pay, just a reorganization, what can the problem possibly be?

But NFLPA executive director Gene Upshaw believes there is an advantage in allowing owners to spend big on high draft choices.

"Those rookie contracts play a role in what a veteran gets," Upshaw said. "Because if the top guy in the draft just got paid $35 million in guarantees and he hasn't even proven himself, and if your contract is up as a veteran, I think it has an affect on what you're going to get. You think Peyton Manning isn't looking at JaMarcus Russell's contract? Of course he is."

Expert: Stiffer rookie salary cap would benefit NFL - NFL - MSNBC.com