Impossible Expectations

9/27/10
Agents offer college athletes benefits with one goal in mind: to represent them in their potential NFL careers. They often fly under the radar, but don't let that fool you. Many agents take their chances on players because they simply don't think anyone will ever find out. However, if and when they are caught by the NCAA, the consequences are unprecedented. When agents take these chances, they are essentially risking that guy's future, as well as the future of the college program. There is eligibility, bowls, scholarships, and reputation on the line. Although it's easy to simply place all the blame on the athletes who accept the money and material incentives from these agents, it is also completely ridiculous to place such impossible expectations on these individuals. We are talking about young kids who don't have much to begin with, as many come from financially-lacking homes. The very survival of their families is placed on the shoulders of these kids, which adds yet another complicated dynamic to the picture. When they see the opportunity to make thousands of dollars in a quick and easy way, they simply cannot turn the offer down, especially with the struggles of their families in the back of their minds.