NFL could penalize NCAA rule breakers
The recent string of investigations and suspensions in college football has led to the NCAA and the National Football League joining together to discussing the possibility of players being punished in the NFL for their actions in college.
The two sides are most concerned with players receiving improper benefits in college, missing time in the NCAA and then moving on to the NFL with no consequence.
The proposal would see players who have received improper benefits in college fined or docked wages by the NFL. In addition, the two leagues are also considering having players suspended between six and eight games in the rookie season.
The recent meeting stems from a series of investigations and suspensions for players receiving improper benefits, specifically from player agents.
"Our intent is not to eliminate NCAA oversight of agent issues, but rather modify the NCAA’s philosophical basis for these rules from enforcement to an assistance-based model," stated SEC (SouthEastern Conference) commissioner Mike Slive.
"Dealing with improper agent conduct has been a challenge for a long time, not only for intercollegiate athletics, but also for many agents who try to follow the rules."
The 2010 season has been plagued by investigations and suspensions in nearly every conference. However, the most affected has been the SEC, where a number of players have been suspended. The University of North Carolina has come under the most scrutiny with
13 players forced out of the first game of the season because of eligibility issues.
Conversely, many students who have athletic scholarships would not have the finances to do so without the help of the university. A recent study showed that it costs most college athletes nearly $3,000 a year in fees, which are not covered by the university.
For many of these students the improper benefits or loans they are taking are necessary in order to remain in school.
Nevertheless, the NCAA and the NFL seem intent on coming to an agreement, which many believe could be in place before the 2011 season.
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