The Chiefs, Eric Berry and the wrong answers about contract situation

“Berry should accept a team-friendly deal.”

Eric Berry’s fortunate to have been drafted prior to the NFL’s last collective-bargaining agreement (which capped the size of rookie contracts). He was drafted one year prior in 2010 and eventually signed a rookie deal worth more than $50 million. At this stage of his career, he’s already made a considerable amount of money. Couple that with the fact that it appears the team “stuck by him” during his battle with cancer and one could argue that Berry’s obligated to the team, right? RIGHT?

It should be noted that Berry turns 28 years old in late December. As he approaches 30, it’s unlikely that his stock will be higher than it is right now. Berry should cash in while he can. The average career in the NFL spans just five years. The earning potential of a player at this level is approximately eight years. The window of opportunity is closing for Berry and it’s wise for him to secure a comfortable future for himself and his family.

“The Chiefs should do whatever it takes to keep Berry.”

Fans can be unforgiving when it comes to contract negotiations between franchises and their favorite players. The onus is always on the team when contracts are set to expire. Exhaust every effort, at all costs, or you’ve failed your fan base. It’s always prudent to overspend in the here-and-now. Especially, when it could mean the difference between a player figuring into the team’s future or finding a new home in the NFL. The long-term ramifications of these decisions, however, are tougher to think through. The wrong choices could potentially mortgage a team’s future.

Extensions are soon coming due for both left tackle Eric Fisher and defensive tackle Dontari Poe. There’s a good chance that what happens this week will have an impact on the signability of at least one of those players. Dorsey’s tasked with finding a number Berry will be satisfied with and protecting the future interests of the franchise. For a team that’s recently become a viable contender in the AFC, fiscal responsibility over the next several years is critical.

Next: Conclusions...