Getting drafted in the NFL changes the lives of so many players. Prior to 2011, the NFL handed out massive contracts to rookies even without playing a single game.
In reality, the 2011 CBA significantly altered how rookie salaries would operate owing to past enormous rookie deals and eye catching rookie contracts in 2010.
Now, the rookie contracts are more strict. A four year deal is immediately offered. They’ll have a fifth year option but will not be able to negotiate contract length or amount.
A fifth year option is usually picked up by teams after the third season of a player on a rookie contract. This means that the player is guaranteed all the fifth-year options
Using the fifth year option can be a good way for teams in the NFL to retain great players and yet have flexible salary flexibility.
Although the terms of these players' contracts aren't totally guaranteed, clubs can re-sign them on a favorable contract to free up cap space or simply let them become free agents.