Tuesday, April 26, 2011

How does the NFL lockout impact the draft?


The NFL lockout ended yesterday by a court ordered injunction.  Doors are open for players to return to work this morning, but this does not mean that business is back to usual.  The collective bargaining agreement expired so the teams and players are operating without any rules. 

What happens with free agency?  How will rookie contracts be structured?   

This Thursday the NFL will begin its annual selection of rookies while they appeal Judge Nelson’s decision to end the lockout in the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.  They are seeking a stay of execution during the appeals.  Basically they are hoping that the judge will postpone the lift of the lockout until a decision is made in appeals court.

In the meantime, the 2011 NFL Draft will go on as planned.  I think that the Carolina Panthers will make Cam Newton the first overall pick of the 2011.  However, I am more curious about what this draft would look like if the lockout had been lifted earlier.  

With a talented, 26-year old quarterback like Kevin Kolb on the market to be traded would a team give up a first round pick to get Kolb?  If a team lands a veteran like Ochocinco, would they feel the need to use an early pick on a wide receiver?

What do you think?

Ciao!

Heels & Helmets®

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