More Problems Between Rams, Jenkins

I think we all knew there would be some potential headaches when the Rams drafted Janoris Jenkins, but I assumed those headaches wouldn’t manifest until after he had spent some time on the field. While he hasn’t done anything wrong yet, the contract negotiation problems are becoming an issue. New reports are coming out that, in addition to the financial advisor issue, the two sides are butting heads on his signing bonus. According to sources, the Rams want to split the bonus into four annual payments and Jenkins’ agent isn’t interested.

This whole situation is interesting in that it’s easy to see both points of view. The Rams want to take measures to limit the potential risk associated with Jenkins, and considering his past, I don’t think you can fault the organization. On the other hand, Jenkins wants to sign a deal that he is comfortable with and that he feels he deserves. It’s hard to take sides, because they both have valid points. The problem is, one side is going to have to give at least a little if this is going to get done.

I would bet that a deal gets done fairly soon, but I think a certain level of worry is valid. I know the Rams want him on this team, but you have to think that there is more pressure on Jenkins to get a deal done. He coud refuse to sign and enter next year’s draft, but that’s another year without millions of dollars and there’s no guarantee that his draft stock won’t take a big hit. A deal will get done, but I for one hope it happens sooner rather than later.