The Importance of Exercise in Determining a 5th Year Option for NFL Players

The Importance of Exercise in Determining a 5th Year Option for NFL Players

As an NFL player, conditioning and maintaining fitness are critical factors that contribute to an extended professional career on the field. NFL teams invest significant resources in ensuring that their players are in top physical shape so that they can maximize their potential on the field. For a player who is coming to the end of their initial four-year rookie contract, staying in excellent shape can be the difference between being offered a valuable fifth-year option or being cut from the team. In this article, we will discuss the importance of exercise in determining a 5th year option for NFL players.

What is a 5th year option?

A 5th year option is a clause that NFL teams can exercise when a first-round pick’s four-year contract comes up for renewal. It provides the team with an extra year to evaluate the player’s potential and decide whether to offer them a more extended contract. The fifth-year option is only available to first-round draft picks, which means that players who were selected later in the draft or as undrafted free agents are not eligible.

Why is exercise vital in determining a 5th year option?

To be offered a 5th year option, a player needs to demonstrate that they have significant potential and can contribute to the team’s success in the long term. One of the critical ways that players can showcase their potential is by maintaining their fitness and making significant improvements to their athletic ability during their rookie contract’s first four years.

A player who takes their training seriously, and regularly engages in physical exercise, is much more likely to develop their skills and reach their full potential. Training can also help players avoid injuries – which can significantly impact their performance on the field – and can help keep them in top form throughout the season.

Case Studies: Examples of Players Who Have Earned a 5th Year Option Through Exercise

One player who has demonstrated the importance of exercise in securing a 5th year option is Marcus Mariota, former quarterback for the Tennessee Titans. Mariota was drafted by the Titans in the first round of the 2015 NFL draft, and during his four-year rookie deal, he was known for his hard work and dedication off the field. His excellent physical condition and dedication to conditioning were pivotal factors in securing his 5th year option. Mariota was rewarded with a $20.9 million contract extension before the start of his 5th year.

Another example of a player who earned his 5th year option through exercise is Joey Bosa of the Los Angeles Chargers. Bosa, a highly-touted defensive end from Ohio State, was drafted third overall by the Chargers in the 2016 NFL Draft. He quickly established himself as a dominant pass-rusher, using his power and speed to terrorize opposing offenses. Bosa’s work ethic and commitment to his physical training earned him a 5th year option that would pay him $14.36 million.

Conclusion

For NFL players, staying in excellent physical condition is essential if they hope to secure a valuable 5th year option. Teams want to know that they are investing in a player who has the potential to contribute to their success in the long term. By engaging in regular physical exercise and conditioning, players can make significant improvements to their skills, avoid injuries, and set themselves up for future success on the field.