NFL signing bonuses written off as passe

0 Comments | USA TODAY, July, 2006 | by Larry Weisman

The signing bonus, the outsized prize traditionally awarded to top NFL draft picks, suddenly seems as dated as a leather helmet.

The NFL's changed world emphasizes guaranteed money that comes in stages as roster bonuses now and option bonuses later. None of the first four No.1 picks signed -- Houston Texans defensive end Mario Williams, Oakland Raiders safety Michael Huff, Cleveland Browns linebacker Kamerion Wimbley and San Diego Chargers cornerback Antonio Cromartie -- cashed a signing-bonus check, and only half the first-round picks last year received one.

Offensive tackle D'Brickashaw Ferguson, the fourth overall pick, signed late Wednesday with the New York Jets. Terms were not disclosed.

"Signing bonus is not representative of what it used to mean,"...

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