As the countdown to the Arizona Cardinals‘ training camp reaches six days, the spotlight is on third-round pick Trey Benson, whose contract negotiations are yet to be finalized. Amidst this anticipation, a recent development involving another rookie has set the stage for Benson’s imminent signing.
Late on Tuesday, the New York Jets made headlines by securing wide receiver Malachi Corley, the first pick in the third round. Corley’s agreement with the Jets boasts a substantial four-year contract valued at $6,073,456. This figure includes a noteworthy signing bonus amounting to $1,237,060. The structured salary package outlines payments of $795,000 for the current year, gradually escalating to $1,583,198 by 2027.
Comparatively, the third player taken in the round, offensive lineman Brandon Coleman of the Commanders, also finalized a lucrative deal valued at $6,058,224. Coleman’s contract includes a signing bonus of $1,225,980 and follows a similar salary progression as Corley’s, ensuring financial stability over the next four years.
Both contracts incorporate additional provisions such as workout bonuses of $40,000 annually from 2025 to 2027. They also feature a full 2024 split clause, which adjusts base salaries should the player be sidelined on injured reserve during the season.
In the realm of NFL contracts, third-round selections typically exceed league minimums, particularly in the later years of their deals. Benson, poised as the next player in line for a contract announcement, is expected to fall between the financial parameters set by Corley and Coleman. The difference in total contract value and signing bonuses between Corley and Coleman is marginal, underscoring the competitive nature of NFL contract negotiations.
As the Cardinals prepare for training camp, the impending signing of Trey Benson represents not only a financial milestone for the young running back but also a strategic move to solidify their roster ahead of the upcoming season. With each contract negotiation in the NFL comes a story of financial planning, player valuation, and the pursuit of gridiron excellence. For Trey Benson, his journey from draft day to contract signing is a testament to the complex and dynamic nature of professional football in the modern era.