No agent, no problem?
Former USC star quarterback Caleb Williams has made a notable decision as he prepares for the 2024 NFL Draft.
Reportedly taking a page from Lamar Jackson’s playbook, Williams is bucking the trend by not having an agent listed on the NFLPA’s draft-eligible players’ roster. This suggests that he has not enlisted a representative and may not do so in the near future.
It’s unusual for an NFL prospect to navigate the draft process without agency representation, but Jackson’s success in negotiating his own lucrative contract with the Baltimore Ravens has likely influenced Williams’ decision. Jackson secured a then-record $260 million deal, with $180 million guaranteed, showcasing that players can negotiate significant contracts without an agent.
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However, forgoing an agent can potentially slow down the contract negotiation process, as seen in Jackson’s case prior to his MVP season. Agents also play crucial roles in public relations and can shield players from negative media attention that might affect their contractual negotiations.
On the other hand, agents typically receive substantial portions of a player’s contract, leading Williams to potentially aim to retain a larger share of his first contract for himself.
It’s also plausible that Williams simply hasn’t found the right representation yet, as selecting an agent is a significant decision that requires careful consideration.
