Could self-representation be a setback in NFL free agency?
Free agency can be an exciting time for football players, but it can also be tough to navigate, especially as the window inches toward a close. This is why the help of an agent is often necessary.
Former Seattle Seahawk, Russell Okung, is hunting down a team in need of an offensive tackle, and he’s doing so on his own. While this isn’t unheard of, it’s not common either, and some have pegged it as the reason the Super Bowl XLVIII champion is still looking for a suitable deal.
Mike Florio, of NBC Sports’ Pro Football Talk, for instance, suggested that the offensive tackle’s decision to self-represent may have, thus far, had an adverse impact on his ability to nail down a deal. Additionally, as Joel Corry, a former NFL agent and current football writer pointed out, Okung’s decision to represent himself prevented him from participating in the legal tampering window, potentially putting him behind other free agents.
The setbacks of self-representation
The legal tampering window is the period during which NFL players’ agents can begin working out deals with teams. During the three-day period they cannot officially sign any documents, but they can hammer out the details of deals to come after the official start of free agency. Unlike many other free agents this year, Okung was not able to finalize a deal with a team during this window, and has since watched as various organizations snatch up offensive line players like Donald Penn and Kelechi Osemele.
Besides being setback by his inability to negotiate during the legal tampering window, Okung may also hurt himself by choosing self-representation over hiring a professional with negotiating skills. That’s not necessarily a knock on his ability to negotiate, but rather an acknowledgement of the longstanding tradition of negotiation that agents represent in sports. Okung, unlike many available agents, has not endured negotiation processes year after year. As prepared as he may be, the simple fact is he still might not be as prepared as an agent.
“It poses a challenge for him to do a nice job with this process,” Pete Carroll, head coach of the Seahawks, told The Seattle Times.
Okung’s choice may be backfiring
For Okung, the decision to represent himself was quite a public affair. He made the announcement on Facebook, and while stressing that he has nothing against agencies, explained that “days of the oblivious athlete are over.” Unfortunately, the issue may not be whether or not athletes are oblivious. The problem may simply come down to experience. Okung has gone through the first week of free agency without the kind of offer he expected. Whether he gets one that is good for him in the short and long term remains to be seen. However, for now there are many eyes on the offensive tackle’s foray into self representation.
If you’re trying to decide between representing yourself or are considering seeking representation from an experienced NFL agent, don’t hesitate to contact one today. These individuals are well-versed in sports law and contract negotiation, and could prove to be a better option.
Otherwise, for related articles having to do with free agency, check out:
Portability of estate and gift tax enables a surviving spouse to inherit any unused portion of their deceased spouse’s federal estate and gift tax exemption. So, if one spouse doesn’t utilize their full exemption, the surviving spouse can effectively double their exemption amount with regard to estate tax liability. For married couples, portability offers a […]
Pet Trusts in New Jersey and New York: A Practical Estate Planning Tool
For many of us, pets are more than companions—they are members of the family. Yet they are often overlooked or inadequately provided for when it comes to estate planning. A pet trust offers a legally enforceable way to ensure that your animal continues to receive proper care if you become incapacitated or pass away. As […]
For many New Jersey business owners, a closely held company represents decades of work, financial investment, and personal sacrifice. Trusts in business succession planning are one of the most effective tools for protecting that value, allowing founders to control how and when the business passes to the next generation while reducing the risk of disputes, […]
Read Before You Sign: IT Contract Pitfalls Every NJ Business Should Know
In today’s digital economy, New Jersey businesses of all sizes rely heavily on technology vendors, software providers, cloud platforms, and managed IT services. Whether your company is purchasing software, migrating data to the cloud, engaging a cybersecurity consultant, or entering into a long-term managed services agreement, a careful IT contract review can have significant operational, […]
Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) remain a critical tool for protecting sensitive business information. However, New York NDA requirements have evolved, and businesses must ensure these agreements are carefully drafted to remain enforceable. In a competitive market like New York City, NDAs are commonly used to protect proprietary information, client relationships, and strategic plans. At the same […]
How Courts Evaluate Testamentary Capacity and Undue Influence Will contests in New Jersey are difficult to win, given the strong presumption that a properly executed will reflects the testator’s intent. However, challenges based on lack of testamentary capacity and undue influence remain common, particularly where there are concerns about mental capacity or the involvement of […]
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Sign up to get the latest from our attorneys!
Explore What Matters Most to You.
Consider subscribing to our Firm Insights mailing list by clicking the button below so you can keep up to date with the firm`s latest articles covering various legal topics.
Stay informed and inspired with the latest updates, insights, and events from Scarinci Hollenbeck. Our resource library provides valuable content across a range of categories to keep you connected and ahead of the curve.
Let`s get in touch!
Sign up to get the latest from the Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC attorneys!
