Anyway. As it happens the franchise tag numbers for DTs would grossly underpay Donald. By about 10-12 M. That''s on top of a badly underpaid rookie contract (compared to his actual level of play). That would mean, if he spent one year on a tag, the Rams would have underpaid him by a significant amount for 6 straight years. I just don't think the Rams are that kind of masculine equipment. I think they have more integrity than that.Well, AD can avoid the franchise tag and/or being grossly underpaid anytime he wants. And get his injury insurance in the bargain. All as soon as this afternoon, actually.
So, please, let’s don’t pretend that AD is a helpless victim here with no options. Hardly.
It might involve the possibility that Mack might receive a few more dollars ultimately in this silly game of one-upsmanship. Or that AD drops his unwinnable opt out demands. Or whatever the heck else is snagging this extension. Because I’m pretty danged sure that it’s not about the money, anymore.
The ball is in AD’s court, and probably has been for over a year. If AD insists on his demands, we can hardly blame the Rams for using their franchise tag options. Players and their agents utilize every option allowed by the current CBA, so why shouldn’t the teams? It is a business, after all.
One last thing. To imply that the Rams “lack integrity” if they utilize their options under the CBA seems unfair and even kinda naive, tbh. If AD (and his pos agent) choose to play hardball with the Rams, he shouldn’t be surprised if they do their best to protect their best interests.
