Branch Would Report If Patriots Promise...

[De Novo 0]

Wayne got 6 yr/40MM/13.5MM bonus

Branch is probably worth about 80% of that. If they turned down a deal worth a shade under $6MM a year (assuming the bonus isn't really low), I'd say good riddance. The bad part is though, Branch will get Reggie Wayne money from someone next year.

 

The comparisons made earlier to how the top 5 are paid isn't relevant. That figure doesn't include bonus, AND the contracts are outdated. If they were in the open market, their total compensation per year would be well over 50% higher than it is using the top-5 standard.

[t.j 35]

The comparisons made earlier to how the top 5 are paid

 

Which post are you referring to?

[TD Ryan2 316]

Yes I know that. I think you were the only one that didn't.

I realize that, but like I said, it doesn't explain his request that they not franchise him next year.

 

the agent wants the "Franchise" option off the table and then he'll send Branch to camp and continue to negotiate through the season.

I guess the agent feels like the Franchise tag is the ultimate VETO if negotiations don't go his way and he doesn't want to have it looming over him. A multi option deal with long term security and a nice signing bonus is what he's after... not 1 year for 7mil. Also I'm sure that they're trying to set this up so Branch gets another big pay day... they'd rather he hit FA market again at 29/30 years old instead of 30/31.

 

So basically, yeah... 7mil isn't enough security (and there's no security this year).

 

Also, what happens if Branch is franchised in '07 but gets injured. Is that money guaranteed even if he doesn't play?

[Phurfur 70]

Franchise Tag? Who is he kidding, no one would waste the Franchise Tag on him. Just another WR thinking he is more important than he is.

[t.j 35]

Also, what happens if Branch is franchised in '07 but gets injured. Is that money guaranteed even if he doesn't play?

 

That's what I was asking MacGregor. I think it is guaranteed but I'm not positive.