[Burt the Butcher]

I don't have time to read all responses, so forgive me if I repeat. We had this issue come up a few years back. Bobby and I play poker, and had discussions on avoiding the rookie bonuses. So we signed some of our rookies to 2 year deals, specifically for me, LeVeon Bell. After the 1st year of his contract, I renegotiated him to 5 years, 2nd contract. Figured he would earn more in bonuses, then the 20% bump, plus 10% raise each year after that.

Well it was decided that any DRAFTED rookie, will get bonuses for his 1st 5 years under contract, if owned by same team, or traded to another team. So I was hit with both barrels.

If the player is cut, then bid on later, then no rookie bonuses. Or if a rookie is not drafted, but signed as FA afterwards, then no rookie bonuses.