Fifth-Year Option Tracker for NFL Players from the 2021 First-Round Draft Class
The fifth-year option is an important decision NFL teams have to make regarding their first-round draft picks. This option allows teams to retain the player for an additional year beyond their initial four-year rookie contract. Not all players have this option available to them, and teams must exercise it before the start of the player’s fourth season. Let’s take a look at the status of the fifth-year options for players from the 2021 first-round draft class.
1. Trevor Lawrence – Jacksonville Jaguars (Quarterback)
The Jaguars wasted no time in exercising the fifth-year option for their star quarterback, Trevor Lawrence. Lawrence was the first overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft and has shown tremendous potential during his rookie season. Securing Lawrence’s services for an extra year gives the Jaguars stability and allows them to build their team around him.
2. Zach Wilson – New York Jets (Quarterback)
Similar to Lawrence, the New York Jets exercised the fifth-year option for their young quarterback, Zach Wilson. Wilson had some ups and downs in his debut season but showed flashes of his talent and potential. The Jets are confident in his abilities and want to maximize their investment in him.
3. Trey Lance – San Francisco 49ers (Quarterback)
The San Francisco 49ers have high hopes for Trey Lance, and they demonstrated their belief in him by picking up his fifth-year option. Lance’s rookie season was limited due to injuries, but his athleticism and arm strength have impressed the coaching staff. The 49ers see him as the future of their franchise and want to ensure they have him under contract for an additional year.
4. Kyle Pitts – Atlanta Falcons (Tight End)
Kyle Pitts had an impressive rookie campaign, showcasing his unique talent as a hybrid tight end/wide receiver. The Atlanta Falcons recognized his potential and exercised his fifth-year option without hesitation. Pitts has the ability to be a game-changing player, and the Falcons want to keep him in their offensive arsenal for as long as possible.
5. Ja’Marr Chase – Cincinnati Bengals (Wide Receiver)
The Cincinnati Bengals wasted no time in securing Ja’Marr Chase for an additional year by picking up his fifth-year option. Chase had a breakout rookie season, forming a formidable connection with quarterback Joe Burrow. The Bengals are excited about Chase’s future and want to ensure he remains a key part of their offensive game plan.
Conclusion:
The fifth-year option is a valuable tool for NFL teams to retain their first-round draft picks beyond their initial contracts. In the case of the 2021 first-round draft class, teams have made confident decisions in exercising this option for promising young players. This allows the teams to build their future around these talents and ensure they have a strong foundation for success.
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