Confessions of a Former NFL Agent

[freddyg12]

Originally Posted by FRPLG

Actually that would be a violation by NCAA rules.

Edit:
Man you just have no concept of what it is like to be one of these guys. Imagine you come from a poor neighborhood, single mom, she has no job, 4 brothers and sisters, the roof leaks, people get shot every other day in the neighborhood and your playing football for a BCS school and will probably get drafted in two years. You're basically on hold for a major payday that can fix all that crap for your family. And you're supposed to trun down easy money? It'll never happen. Once those guys start taking the money then all the other ones who don't need it as much take it. I feel sorry they have to work for free while their schools fund their entire athletic deaprtment off their backs and the NCAA turns a blind eye to the needs of the students it purports to protect.

Imagine you're that dude and you've earned a 5 year scholarship far removed from the ghetto you grew up in, where there is plenty to eat everyday, a structured environment with coaches & trainers there to imrpove your game, academic advisors to guide you into classes you can handle & tutors that will help you learn whatever you're having trouble with in class.

I know I'm painting the idyllic picture, but it's not as if athletes don't get anything. Most of these guys aren't going pro, so "waiting for a payday" is not an option for them. Their payday is an education that they otherwise couldn't afford.