He would have to pay back a portion of his signing bonus money of $16.35 million. That is part of the collective bargaining agreement that comes along with all drug or personal conduct suspensions.
The final total on that would be $1.4 million.
That number would be deducted from future earnings rather than Elliott writing a check back to the team, according to a source.
In addition, salaries for 2018 and 2019 (totaling $3.853 million) would no longer be guaranteed against a career-ending injury.
Read more here:
https://www.star-telegram.com/sports/nfl/dallas-cowboys/article181461481.html#storylink=cpy
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So, Elliott pocketed a $16 million signing bonus, Goodell's discipline immediately erased $1 1/2 million, and he could still net the rest of his salary IF he does not sustain a career-ending injury.
Personally, my income empathy taps out for almost everyone who has earned $10 million or more, with the lone exception being Terrell "Must Feed My Family After Signing Mega Contract" Owens. My empathy evaporated for him at about $1 million in career earnings. (Old story / no one ask / lol)
I would feel sorry for Elliott even after he signs a new deal and got injured afterwards. Most athletes who turn pro work hard much of their lives to play a sport they love. I am compassionate about them losing what they love so much. However, my compassion has strings when it comes to money athletes' dreams have already secured.