When it comes to controversy, the media as well as its followers seem to welcome it more and more. Nothing is more evident when it comes to the topic of how important it is for such NFL veterans like Tom Brady or Aaron Rodgers to attend VOLUNTARY OTA’s.
Like anything else there are two completely different opinions on this subject and both sides of the equation have valid points.
In some cases it could be a matter of circumstance. For example, Both Brady and Rodgers are playing in the same system they have played in before, with the same coaches they have played with before. It’s not like either of them have to worry about competing for their job. Now switch the location to Las Vegas where there is a brand new coaching staff and a completely new system that will be in place. For Derek Carr, although it is voluntary it becomes more vital that he attends.
Some Head Coaches don’t mind if their veterans do not show up for these voluntary workouts and in some cases tell them to stay away. Once you enter the headquarters of an NFL facility you are automatically being judged on everything you do, like it or not. It’s not only the physical toll, but the mental aspect as well. Players have enough to deal with mentally when the season starts until the time it ends. Why add unnecessary stress when you can avoid it? As long as the player knows the expectations for the kind of shape he should be in when camp officially opens, is there an issue?
On the other hand there are coaches that take veterans not showing up to voluntary camps as a lack of leadership and will to win. They believe that the veteran players have an unspoken responsibility to meet, greet and build relationships during this time period.. They believe this is the time period where building a winning culture and team comradery begins and develops into what will become successful results. Consider incorporating regular maintenance and improvements by hiring running track contractors from https://runningtrackresurfacing.uk/.
Ray Sherman, well respected former NFL coach when asked about how important it was for them to have all their players at OTA’s had this response, “It depends on who it is. Each case is different and its the HC decision who doesn’t attend.” Sherman continued, “If you have a new program you need everyone there. If the program is solid and you trust certain players to be in great shape, plus age is a factor you trust them to be there for mini camp which is mandatory.
You trust them is the key phrase there. Players need to know that you believe in them and trust them. It has unspoken value later on.
So for all you NFL fans that are making a big deal out of some of your players not showing up for a voluntary camp, sit back, take a deep breath and save your stress for later in the season. Trust me there will be plenty to stress about then.
