re: No early entries this year?

quote:

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I can understand Beckwith, but LaCouture? I just never thought he would even be thinking of leaving this year, nor Neal.

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Perfect example of how things have changed in the last generation or so. Young elite athletes today have been assuming they'll be pros since they were in the 8th grade, so by the time they get to college, they literally feel as if they're journey to the NFL has taken a lifetime. Not long ago, with some rare exceptions, really outstanding athletes with pro potential looked at maximizing the college experience BECAUSE it prepares them for the next level. Early-entry rules and rookie wage-scale changes have had a tremendous impact here too, obviously.

Having said that, if a team with our talent could roll onto the field next year with experience and leadership in every position group at the same time, with guys fully at the top of their potential at this level, that could be a pretty important factor in how the season goes.