Drafting at #26, we are already looking at all 2nd round prospects to begin with. I’m with you on drafting Bijon. He’s not only the best RB in the country, but most say he’s the best in several years, and he’s a great receiving threat. The reason you take him at the bottom of round 1 is because that gives you his rights for 5 years. If you run his wheels off in 5 years as a stud RB, you then move on. No second contracts for starting RBs, so secure them for the extra year. He’s considered by many as a top 10 talent in this draft.
I wouldn't bank on that 5th year.
RBs have to show up for their 4th year if they want to become a vested vet. 5th year, they can just sit out. Miss a year of salary, but also miss a year of wear and tear. Miss a year of declining production. Have more in the tank left for their free agent contract.
Zeke held out in his 4th year. I think when he did it, a couple of other top backs held out for an extension before that 5th year too. Don't know the record on what top RBs have done since. But I expect similar cases for top RBs, which a 1st round pick better be, as the basic dynamic is the same.
We know that RBs have little left in the tank after their first contract. Therefore we don't want to sign them to one, therefore smart RBs will try to maximize the value left in the tank for their free agent contract. Except for truer superfreaks, RBs wear out from mileage, not age.
