You don't believe Fitzgerald has leveraged his production, role, and status in every contract negotiation he has had? You don't believe all of his comments about his role, understanding the system, and how many QBs he has played with aren't smartly placed to try and convince the public that he is still a top player despite his lack of production? Come on.
That sure is a lot of opinion, and assumption to try can say that my thoughts are ridiculous.
The NFL is a business, if a player doesn't use his skill and production to negotiate his contract then he is a fool.
As for his comments, I think the man is answering the questions posed to him. He seems to be quite comfortable with his role the way I see, and it seems it is the fans/media that are not. If he says he is fine with his lowered production then he is called out for not being competitive, if he says he is not happy with his production then he is called out for being selfish. It is a no win situation for him. Thus I do not see what he gains through complaining.
In my opinion, the guy does everything you can ask for. As for the business side of things, my opinion is noted here and in previous posts. I cannot debate your assumptions.
Fitz is a competitor, and has always been concerned with where he ranks in the league financially, and what his leagacy after football looks like. He was never going to go to another team because he would have bean paid like an average WR, and would have still produced like an average WR.
Revis pretty has done to the league what Fitzgerald has done to the Cardinals.
LOL. Cause Fitzgerald wrote up the original contract right, and then put a gun to Graves' head to sign it right ?
Fitzgerald got a standard contract for his draft placement and hit every escalator in the contract. Since then he has done what you do in business situations and take the opportunities that are put before you. Again, just like every other professional athlete does. If you personally have a problem with how the Cardinals handled Fitzgerald, then you should send them a letter for your discontent.
Cleverly used the media to remain in the spotlight and maintain his reputation despite the circumstances he is in while maximizing every opportunity to get the most money possible.
A player who used to leave the locker room early so he didn't have to talk to the media, all of a sudden is a master of weaving a web of media for negotiation purposes ? If you believe that then those are your words.
Also, I think that Fitzgerald's personality, his ability to be a gentleman, to be a spokesman, the fact he is one of the best receivers of all time, put himself on the map by having one of the best playoff runs in front of the nation, and through hard work, dedication, and even in the face of playing with some of the worst QB's that have ever played in the NFL, has the respect of his peers, coaches, and fans, have something to do with him staying in the spot light.
How about a little respect for the skill the guy brings to the game, at this point if you read this entire thread, its like people are saying Fitzgerald is a over hyped Bryant Johnson. Which is not even worth debating cause it is just plain not true.
:hatersgonnahate:
