Juniors Going Pro?

[HogWild]

The discussion in the Heisman thread about McFadden made me want to ask this question. But I didn't want to hi-jack the thread...

I said that I was looking forward to seeing McFadden play on Sunday's next year (even though he is a junior). He has said that he would probably declare for the draft after this season.

It got me thinking about the times in recent history that I think Arkansas was 'robbed' of a great season as non-Seniors went pro (both in basketball and football).

We lost Joe Johnson (basketball) several years ago as a Sophmore and now are quite possibly losing McFadden AND Jones, both Juniors, in football.

I realize that they have the right to make money, but I do at times feel cheated as a lifelong fan.

What do you think?

[turbotim]

I don't see a problem with a junior going pro.

[HogWild]

That's probably because Ole Miss is the SMU of the SEC...

JUST KIDDING!

Do you feel cheated as a fan when they do go pro?

[Paully_44]

of course they should.

If I was a Soph, or Jr and got recruited by a firm and offered millions... I would jump at the chance. Why shouldn't athletes be able to do the same.

[HogWild]

BUT...

Does it amount to a breach of contract when an athlete is recuited and then given a scholarship for four years but then leaves early?

The University has lost revenue, and then has to deal with replacing a position earlier than expected...

Of course, I also believe that college athletes should be paid... That's another poll and thread...

[teach]

I think that as long as it doesn't breech contract or they pay the money back they should be able to go pro.

wendy k

[Paully_44]

BUT...

Does it amount to a breach of contract when an athlete is recuited and then given a scholarship for four years but then leaves early?

Since I was never offered a college scholarship, I really don't know what is entailed when a player signs a letter of intent and agrees to a scholarship from an institution in return for playing sports.

[Rob]

I love the college football view on this, if a student athlete is 3 years removed from High School he has the opportunity to go pro. These kids are simply one injury away from having their career's forever changed. So yes, let juniors who desire go.

As for feeling cheated as a fan I have two comments on that.

First, it may give us (my favorite school) the opportunity to recruit a kid that otherwise he may not have looked at us because the position was already tied up. Plus we have sent so and so to the pros and look how he is doing so I want to attend that school to have that coaching staff prepare me for the next level.

Second - what about coaches who walk into a recruits home and promise that kid I will be here for 4 years until the next hot job comes along offering something better. Nothing is ever said about those kids that stay through a coaching change.

So in my opinion if a kid wants to go, no difference than a coach leaving for another job.

[turbotim]

That's probably because Ole Miss is the SMU of the SEC...

JUST KIDDING!

Do you feel cheated as a fan when they do go pro?

Are you talking to me? I am a MS State Alumni and fan...

As far as the breach of contract, I recieved a scholarship for each year. If I left early, then I would not be paid for that year. I know what you mean. At the same time, you are only given the scholarship for the years you are there. It's not like he is getting paid to be there. He is getting to go to school there plus some food and books.

[HogWild]

MS State is even worse!




Just kidding!