Pre-Draft Trash Talk Backfires
I am not a big fan of sports agents. I only deal with them because I have to around Draft time. A few have been extremely helpful, kind and professional with me. But only a few. In a Yahoo! story recently, agent Ben Dogra (who I’ve never worked with) said: “It’s non-stop rumors. This year has already been worse than any year I can remember. It’s all about what agents are trying to ruin some kids because they’re nervous that their kid is slipping.” What a crummy, dirtbag thing to do to someone’s future so you can make a few more bucks. This is how sports agents get a bad name.
The rumors Dogra was referencing came last week when news surfaced that three top prospects – Georgia Tech wide receiver Calvin Johnson, Louisville defensive tackle Amobi Okoye and Clemson defensive end Gaines Adams – reportedly admitted during interviews at the NFL scouting combine to having tried marijuana. Although none of the three has knowingly tested positive for banned substances, there’s a widespread belief for the leak. Someone was trying to hurt the value of those players. The obvious thought in this situation is that making such information public would scare some teams from taking those players. In this case, the situation seems to have backfired. Not only is the NFL upset with the leak of the information, but all three players have gotten high marks for their honesty.
I admire these players for admitting the truth, even at the risk of embarrassing themselves a little bit. We’ve all made mistakes. To be forthright about it and to admit to a wrongdoing is admirable. It’s not a habit for these players. It’s just a mistake they made. And I’m glad they are being commended rather than condemned for their honesty.
Tags: Calvin-Johnson, Gaines-Adams, NFL, NFL Draft 2007, Omobi-OkoyeRelated Stories
POSTED IN: NFL Draft
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