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:
Secured transactions form the backbone of a wide range of business dealings, including business loans, mortgages, and inventory financing. Because the stakes are often high and relatively minor oversights can have drastic consequences, lenders and borrowers should thoroughly understand how to form an enforceable security agreement that protects their legal rights. What Is a Secured […]
Don’t Cash a “Paid in Full” Check Without Understanding the Legal Implications
Cashing a check marked “paid in full” can be a risky endeavor, particularly if you don’t fully understanding the legal implications. If you are owed more than the amount of the check you accept and deposit, you may waive your right to collect the full disputed amount. That is why you should consider either rejecting […]
Changes to Qualified Small Business Stock Will Benefit Startup Founders and Investors
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025 (OBBBA) significantly impacts federal taxes, credits, and deductions. A key change relating to Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) allows greater tax-free gains for investments in startups and other qualifying small businesses. Company founders and other investors should understand how the enhanced tax strategy works or risk missing […]
Corporate Consolidation and Antitrust Issues in Mergers
Corporate consolidation involves two or more businesses merging to become a single larger entity. The result is often a stronger and more competitive company that can better navigate today’s competitive marketplace. What Is Corporate Consolidation? Corporate consolidation closely resembles a basic merger transaction. The primary difference is that a consolidation creates an entirely new business […]
Business law plays a critical role in nearly every aspect of running a successful enterprise, from negotiating a commercial lease to drafting employee policies to fulfilling corporate disclosure obligations. Understanding what is business law and your legal obligations can help your business run smoothly and build productive relationships with clients, business partners, regulators, and others. […]
Corporate Transactions: Best Practices for Successful Deals
Corporate transactions can have significant implications for a corporation and its stakeholders. For deals to be successful, companies must act strategically to maximize value and minimize risk. It is also important to fully understand the legal and financial ramifications of corporate transactions, both in the near and long term. Understanding Corporate Transactions The term “corporate […]
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!
