| Keep
the Faith Now that the 2007
NFL draft is behind us, we would like to extend our thanks to those in the network
who reached out to try and connect Black players with Black agents so that more
of the sports business industry dollar might make its way through the community.
Our efforts fell short mostly due to our very
late start which, for all practical purposes, made it a long shot to land a top
prospect. As a result of our joint efforts, we were able to get in front of Ted
Ginn of Ohio State, selected 9th by the Dolphins, submit a proposal to JaMarcus
Russell, selected 1st by the Raiders, and make initial contact with Quentin Moses,
selected 65th by the Raiders, The NFL draft
was once again dominated by Black players. Of the 32 players selected in the first
round, 28 were Black. When you consider Anthony Gonzalez of Ohio State who is
of Cuban descent, 29 of the 32 players selected in Round 1 were players of color.
A total of 52 of the first 64 players were of color. Collectively, the 52 players
of color will sign contracts with guaranteed money in excess of $250 million dollars,
with JaMarcus Russell leading the pack at approximately $30 million in guaranteed
money. Black agents represented 7 of the 52
players of color, including 3 players who will be jointly represented by a Black
and a White agent. Each of the 52 players of color will buy one or more homes,
one or more automobiles, auto and home insurance, new wardrobes, home furnishings,
deposit significant cash in the bank and turn over millions to financial and investment
professionals. Many of them will also hire public relations, marketing and endorsement
professionals to generate additional, off-the-field, income. While
our efforts fell short, we should not be discouraged because of our late start.
We should also be encouraged by the fact that we were able to connect with several
top players despite our late start. The reality of the opportunities available
to those in the network based on our success is also reason for us to remain encouraged.
Imagine if you can the difference just 10% of $250 million, or $25 million, might
make if recycled in the community. Because of the possibilities, we must continue
to work our networks to connect with one of our communities’ most precious
natural resources, our athletic young brothers. When
you consider that JaMarcus’ entourage consisted of 42 Black people with
the exception of his agent, as shown in the ESPN piece Between the Lines, each
of whom played a role in his development, you should agree that more people who
look like the players ought to participate in and benefit from the opportunity.
Unless and until we come together, guys who are not from the community will continue
to show up at the finish line and take away our gold. If
you have questions or require additional information, please contact Everett L.
Glenn, Esq. at eglenn@espsportslawpro.com
or call 562.619.8460.
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