NFL Teams Lack Faith In The 2019 Draft Class

NFL seasons quickly go by.

While the preparation starts earlier, the entire season may last up to six months if a team reaches the Super Bowl.

There are only 17 regular-season games per team, making it easier to count back compared to the NBA or MLB.

In a blink of an eye, the rookie contracts of the 2019 class will expire after the 2022 season.

A lot of them have made their mark in the NFL, like Kyler Murray, Deebo Samuel, D.K. Metcalf, Terry McLaurin, and A.J. Brown on offense.

On defense, Brian Burns, Nick Bosa, Jeffery Simmons, and Devin White were drafted.

But while they have an extensive collection of talent, it looks like the teams made more misses than hits.

5th-year options declined, officially:

No. 4: Clelin Ferrell
No. 6: Daniel Jones
No. 10: Devin Bush
No. 18: Garrett Bradbury
No. 22: Andre Dillard
No. 24: Josh Jacobs
No. 27: Johnathan Abram
No. 28: Jerry Tillery
No. 29: LJ Collier
No. 31: Kaleb McGary
No. 32: NKeal Harry

11/32

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) May 2, 2022

Pro Football Focus writer Ari Meirov shared that 11 out of 32 first-round draftees had their fifth-year options declined.

Only those taken in round one are eligible for the option which is one-year of guaranteed money.

As of now, several teams are not extending their young players.

Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs is the most surprising player out of the list above.

Meanwhile, declining Daniel Jones‘ fifth-year option means that he one year to prove he’s the New York Giants’ franchise quarterback.

Not Yet The End Of The Road

Since they won’t be playing under their fifth-year options, those athletes can sign with another team once their current contract expires.

However, it’s still possible that they will remain with their respective squads.

It’s possible that a long-term extension will be offered and the team wants the second contract to start immediately.

But the player shouldn’t expect a high-value deal, given that their option was declined.

Therefore, the 2022 season is their avenue to change the team’s mind regarding their future.