Oh I agree. But it is almost a sure thing he would light up the CFL. If he is going after money the NFL is the way to go. If he wants to play and get his game skills back and maybe lead a team to a championship and boost his NFL chances. Go to the CFL. Neither is right or wrong. Just our opinions.

Does spring league pay more than $150 K ?

jackie childs said:

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CoachLB said:

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And he will be a backup in the NFL. I would rather play and be a starter in the CFL. To me watching from the bench with a clipboard is not as good as starting and playing an important role in the CFL. Even for less money. it is like the kid who would rather ride the bench with the varsity than be a starter on the junior varsity just so he can been seen in a Jersey on Friday night. I would rather play.

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is $150k a reasonable salary for a starting QB in the CFL? i have no idea.

I get your point about getting reps, but last season, 67 different QB's started an NFL game. 46 different QB's started 5 or more games. so go learn from the best and you're always one nasty sack away from starting.

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the CFL salaries are way less. But they have ways to pay guys more than CFL contracts pay. Personal contracts for the owners business such as meet and greets etc. But Johnny has been out of the game for a few years and has baggage. is he really in the position to demand top money? And yeah people get hurt so he may get the chance to start in the NFL. But it would have to be with a team that runs a scheme he fits. The CFL style is Taylor made for Johnny skill set. And he would be a day one starter. But either league is not a bad choice for him .

Dr RC said:

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BombayAg said:

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Dr RC said:

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BombayAg said:

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I read that they "could not come to terms". WTF does that mean? JFF is in no position to dictate terms. He just needs to see the field making minimum wage.

What else was the issue?

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You do realize he is simply following the advice of his agent don't you?

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You are right, but that is what I find perplexing. Penny wise pound foolish in my opinion. JFF has no cards to play. His goal should have been opportunities to prove, rather than cash.
There are times in one's career when one takes a paycut in exchange for opportunity. Too bad.

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Pretty sure his agent knows more than you when it comes to this sort of thing.

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Sometimes agents interests are not in line with client.
Example is realtor trying to sell a house for you.

Witness said:

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BombayAg said:

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Dr RC said:

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BombayAg said:

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I read that they "could not come to terms". WTF does that mean? JFF is in no position to dictate terms. He just needs to see the field making minimum wage.

What else was the issue?

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You do realize he is simply following the advice of his agent don't you?

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You are right, but that is what I find perplexing. Penny wise pound foolish in my opinion. JFF has no cards to play. His goal should have been opportunities to prove, rather than cash.
There are times in one's career when one takes a paycut in exchange for opportunity. Too bad.

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The Spring League is two weeks long and ends before CFL season starts so he can always go to CFL but why get locked in at 150k for 2 years when you can do all you can go improve your value

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Ok if he can do both then it makes sense.

Negotiations seem to be ongoing. He can still be in both the Spring League and the CFL.

Coin said:

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Brennus said:

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JFF backs Aaron Burr

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My Man! Hamilton is a *****

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Be careful, you don't want to get challenged to a duel.

He's not giving away his shot...

BombayAg said:

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Dr RC said:

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BombayAg said:

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I read that they "could not come to terms". WTF does that mean? JFF is in no position to dictate terms. He just needs to see the field making minimum wage.

What else was the issue?

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You do realize he is simply following the advice of his agent don't you?

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You are right, but that is what I find perplexing. Penny wise pound foolish in my opinion. JFF has no cards to play. His goal should have been opportunities to prove, rather than cash.
There are times in one's career when one takes a paycut in exchange for opportunity. Too bad.

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He says he has a guaranteed option in front of him. That sounds to me like they've made him an offer that's good for while. Training camp is not for about 2 or 3 months, so what's his hurry to sign?

He may or may not have cards to play. We'll see.

Hamilton wants something out of this. Yeah, he's a risk, but it's a risk not to take him, as well. They don't want to be left empty handed, when they could have traded his rights. And, there are plenty of people who are still absolutely intrigued by what he might be (football insiders among them).

Let the negotiation play out.

(But, don't suck in the spring league - that would be bad...)

150k would be fine if he could come and go as he pleases (ie getting an nfl offer). 150k/year for a 2 year commitment from a player with the name recognition of Manziel is a joke.

After Canadian and us taxes... it's just not enough.

There is a reason a lot of players like rg3, vy and so on don't go play up north.

RooAg said:

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I assume if he signs with the CFL he can't play in the spring league. I'm sure they wouldn't allow it. But sounds like he can sign with the CFL this season still if the spring league goes nowhere. If this is correct and I'm him, I play spring league for a chance at an NFL roster to make the a much higher league minimum (450k) or higher. He also has a limited shelf life and should still be in play to get an NFL pension (min 3 years). If he can make an NFL roster it's more money and a pension. If not, then go to CFL.

No reason not to go big if your backup plan is still waiting on you if you swing and miss.

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Agree with this. Scouts from all leagues (NFL, CFL, and arena) are invited to attend Spring League practices and games and are provided tape. Spring League coaching staff all have NFL experience, per the website. It runs March 28-April 15. IIRC, league minimum in NFL vs CFL is 10x higher. Hamilton GM said clearly in interviews back in January that CFL doesn't start until May, so they had plenty of time to negotiate with JFF. He also said they were interested in not letting him walk, getting him signed if possible. If he signs, it's a two-year commitment. He can't do well and jump to NFL after one season. If he signs now, he can't do Spring League. If they were in no hurry in January to secure him at his asking price, and said there is plenty of time until May to find middle ground, then why not take that time to go to Spring League and see if he draws the attention of an NFL team instead? I get reps, playing now, others have mentioned, but being a backup QB on an NFL team gives time to learn but also prove to NFL that he can handle their schedule, their rules, be a good teammate to their level of pros and not be a distraction as he was in the past. While he can do all that in CFL, too, if he gets this shot, he's accelerated proving it to NFL GMs. IMO, this all makes risk of doing Spring League low while potential reward is high.

baylro bob is not going to play anywhere, nobody wants him and I don't blame them. I think Hamilton had his rights a few months ago before the JFF issue came about. Not sure if they still hold his rights, quick search shows that was May last year. They also have Kaepernick's signing rights

as far as Vints, he's not going anywhere except where he is now, a puppet for the sips

Jff needs to do a few seasons in the cfl if he wants to be taken seriously imo.

It just surprises me that people believe 150 thousand dollars is not enough for a guy who has been out of football for a few years, has had substance abuse and legal problems. I said earlier i had a shot in the CFL but was cut. I would have played for less than 150 thousand if i could have. Why? Because I wanted to play football! And if you show them you can play and do the right things the bigger money will come.

Johnny needs to hold out for as much as he can get. He will instantly be the best QB in the league. He should not be making chump change. Hamilton is playing chicken but they are driving a smart car- JFF in a Hum-Vee.

This is affirming GMs belief that there is no doubt JFF wants to get paid but have serious doubts about him wanting to play football.

Doubt he'll ever take another snap in NFL .

Old Town Ag said:

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CFL requires 2 szn commitment.

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If JFF broke the contract, the most he could owe would be $150K. Chump change v. NFL contract.

Agsrback12 said:

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Does spring league pay more than $150 K ?

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It doesn't pay at all. It's a two-week development league. Johnny actually paid an application fee and a reservation fee to be able to participate. All the players attending do, and they accept them until their slots are full. The only thing included is housing and meals for the two weeks.

So, argument could be made that he is showing maturity and commitment by investing in developing his skills after being away from the game. It does get him NFL looks, but it could also bolster his CFL chances and negotiations by providing current demonstration that he hasn't lost his skill and is likely to perform well, is worth more.

There's not much talent at QB in the NFL. Johnny's issue wasn't his skill- it was his off field issues. Doug Flutie was smaller and made it at both CFL and NFL. He was a choir boy and a mentor to Drew Brees.

I watch more NFL than NCAA- gonna say if Johnny can show some leadership and stay out of trouble- he will get a shot. Can you name the starting QB for the Buffalo Bills? Look at Arizona- they need a QB. Like I said- Johnny can do it.

CoachLB said:

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It just surprises me that people believe 150 thousand dollars is not enough for a guy who has been out of football for a few years, has had substance abuse and legal problems. I said earlier i had a shot in the CFL but was cut. I would have played for less than 150 thousand if i could have. Why? Because I wanted to play football! And if you show them you can play and do the right things the bigger money will come.

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You're right, but the funniest part is none of the posters make half that money. Lol

It's the zoo. No logic. Just emotion

Johnny needs no money. He's set without football. Family money.

If he wants to play , he should play for any offer he gets. Hell, he should pay the team back if he fails a drug test or gets in trouble.

The team owes him zero. They are willing too take a chance at $150k. Not bad for a guy with his baggage in the cfl.

If jff doesn't take the offer I doubt he'll get another. It shows heart.

Go back and look up the New Orleans saints and Ricky Williams contract. Lol. Ricky played for performance. He was fresh off a great college season .... it was a joke of a contract. I actually felt bad for him

Jff should jump on that. If not, he doesn't want to play bad enough and I don't think he makes it. This is adversity right here. So far he's failing.

Hope he gets back to the NFL and kills it there. I really do. It'd be a great story for life. We'll see

CoachLB said:

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It just surprises me that people believe 150 thousand dollars is not enough for a guy who has been out of football for a few years, has had substance abuse and legal problems. I said earlier i had a shot in the CFL but was cut. I would have played for less than 150 thousand if i could have. Why? Because I wanted to play football! And if you show them you can play and do the right things the bigger money will come.

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It has nothing to do with what's enough. It has to do with his value in this particular market in a capitalistic free market system. He's exploring that now...

If he does the right things, the money will come. If his agent does the right things, some of the money will come now....

I understand and agree with all of that. My point is going back and forth about money when you are the reason you are not playing football now seems like your motives are not really all about just having a chance of playing pro football. Is there a demand for a guy who has done nothing but sabotage his own career for the last few years? He should be happy someone is giving him a shot. Lot of folks talking money on here. If I was a GM I would want to know that Johnny really wants to play football and is just not hunting a big paycheck. If he does then I would talk more money once he proved he can still play and stay out of trouble. I do not throw big money at an risky player trying to make a comeback just because he used to be good. Prove it first. And prove you can stay out of trouble too.

CoachLB said:

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I understand and agree with all of that. My point is going back and forth about money when you are the reason you are not playing football now seems like your motives are not really all about just having a chance of playing pro football. Is there a demand for a guy who has done nothing but sabotage his own career for the last few years? He should be happy someone is giving him a shot. Lot of folks talking money on here. If I was a GM I would want to know that Johnny really wants to play football and is just not hunting a big paycheck. If he does then I would talk more money once he proved he can still play and stay out of trouble. I do not throw big money at an risky player trying to make a comeback just because he used to be good. Prove it first. And prove you can stay out of trouble too.

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Which is exactly what he is doing by playing in that Spring League for free

I am also looking at this from a football point of view. If I trust a player with a lot of money and being the quarterback of my team. Then 5 or so games into the season his old issues show back up my team is screwed. Show us you are serious about being a pro player and the money will come. Cannot help myself. I think like a coach, not like a business man or agent.

The spring league does not bother me. I never said it did. I have been talking about the 150 thousand dollars being a reason to not sign the CFL contract when it is you fault your are out of football not the NFL or CFLs fault.

Memphis 7 said:

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150k would be fine if he could come and go as he pleases (ie getting an nfl offer). 150k/year for a 2 year commitment from a player with the name recognition of Manziel is a joke.

After Canadian and us taxes... it's just not enough.

There is a reason a lot of players like rg3, vy and so on don't go play up north.

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Vince Young went up there and got cut in training camp.

Derek Walker plays there.

It's fun football.

.

CoachLB said:

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I cannot tell anyone what to do. But I would have taken the 150 thousand just for the opprotunity to get back on the field. Johnny is a perfect fit for the CFL. His game would light up that league. His style of play is Taylor made for their game. Play a season there and put things on film for people to see, stay out of trouble and the N.F.L comes calling. Or the CFL may make it worth it to stay there. There are guys who have made a lot of money and enjoyed their careers up there.

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Exactly right.

Johnny will be Doug Flutie 2.0. That is, if he can stay away from the hookers and blow (big "If" imo).

It's not the money. It's the opportunity to showcase his skills (which he won't get to do being a backup in the NFL). And if he does well, like Flutie did, then, and only then, will he get a shot at being a starting QB again in the NFL.

However, I'm finally starting to get Johnny burnout. So much talent but yet so much stupidity. I really don't care what he does anymore. He's a grown man now, not a kid.

Pretty sure CFL is a business like NFL. If you don't think Johnny still has it then you don't trust Coach June Jones assessment. He CAN play and if healthy be a top QB. Why on God's earth would he sell himself for less?? I'm gonna guess he gets more than the current offer. Hamilton low balled him. His market will get a boost with a good showing in Austin. Can't wait to see him play. CFL is a business. JFF should treat it as such.

I would low ball him too. He sabotaged his career. I still think Johnny can and will play great if he stays focused and out of trouble. I have fewer doubts about his ability than I do his not messing up. I am a Johnny fan. But you just cannot screw your football career and former team and expect everybody just trust you with their team and throw money at you. Earn your trust and your money first.

CoachLB said:

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I understand and agree with all of that. My point is going back and forth about money when you are the reason you are not playing football now seems like your motives are not really all about just having a chance of playing pro football. Is there a demand for a guy who has done nothing but sabotage his own career for the last few years? He should be happy someone is giving him a shot. Lot of folks talking money on here. If I was a GM I would want to know that Johnny really wants to play football and is just not hunting a big paycheck. If he does then I would talk more money once he proved he can still play and stay out of trouble. I do not throw big money at an risky player trying to make a comeback just because he used to be good. Prove it first. And prove you can stay out of trouble too.

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If the CFL season starts (meaning camp), and Johnny is not on a roster (and has no other options), and the reason is money, I would absolutely think that was a mistake, and a signal that he's not serious.

Similarly, if he were to cave without getting more than the minimum from Hamilton a full 2 months before training camp even starts, out of some misplaced sense of guilt or obligation, I would also think that's a mistake (and probably an affront to his agent).

I expect to see him in a Tigercats uniform when the season starts, making something near the midpoint between his asking price, and what they are currently offering.

As the season gets closer, you can bet that Hamilton management is feeling the pressure to sign him. Warranted or not, there are probably already some worst-to-first fantasies drifting around among the fanbase, associated with Johnny coming there, coming in part from June Jones own comments. The letdown if he doesn't end up there will absolutely have a monetary impact.

CoachLB said:

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I would low ball him too. He sabotaged his career. I still think Johnny can and will play great if he stays focused and out of trouble. I have fewer doubts about his ability than I do his not messing up. I am a Johnny fan. But you just cannot screw your football career and former team and expect everybody just trust you with their team and throw money at you. Earn your trust and your money first.

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Exactly

These Millennials just can not understand the concepts that "Beggars can not be choosers" and "A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush".

Johnny doesn't need the money (assuming he hasn't blown it all on hookers and blow that is).

What he needs is a second chance. Hamilton with June Jones as the coach provides that.

If Johnny can stay out of trouble for two years in the CFL (big if) then some NFL teams may take a chance on him.

I see your point I do. I was no Johnny Manziel. But when I was in camp with the CFL money was not on my mind. I wanted to play pro football. I would have played for just enough to live on until I got a new contract. All I asked my agent for was to get me a shot. Would love to see Johnny show a desire to just play football at least until he proves he is back and free of his issues. Besides 150 thousand to play a game is nothing to laugh about. He should have some NFL money left unless he blew that.

I think you're over-estimating Johnny's market value, as is Johnny's agent.

Most people see Johnny as a head case that was a bust in the NFL.

Viper16 said:

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Hamilton is trying to get away with a cheap deal....JFF would instantly generate a few million in gear sales with his presence on the football field. I don't blame him for saying no to the bs deal.

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This ^^^ times eleventy billion... like it or not...