All 32 NFL teams have either signed each of their 2022 draft picks or are currently in the process of doing so. Just two first-round picks remain unsigned, and all fifth, sixth and seventh-round picks have reportedly signed their deals. However, not many fourth-round picks have signed their rookie contracts — and there’s an explanation for that.
Per NFL Media, just nine of 38 fourth-round picks have signed their deals. The reason why is because Houston Texans running back Dameon Pierce received an extra $25,000 over the minimum. Now, according to the report, other agents are asking for the same thing for their clients. Per Spotrac, Pierce signed a four-year, $4,475,432 deal which includes a $815,432 signing bonus, $815,432 guaranteed and an average annual salary of $1,118,858.
Here is the breakdown of rookie signings as of June 8, per NFL Media.
|
1 |
30 |
32 |
93.75% |
|
2 |
13 |
32 |
40.63% |
|
3 |
37 |
41 |
90.24% |
|
4 |
9 |
38 |
23.68% |
|
5 |
36 |
36 |
100% |
|
6 |
42 |
42 |
100% |
|
7 |
41 |
41 |
100% |
Pierce receiving a boost in pay is not something that is expected to derail a fourth-rounder signing with his new team, but it’s another fascinating example of how a player signing a contract can create ripple effects around the league, even if you’ve never played a professional down before.
KVSP