Every player in the NFL should count their lucky stars. From the starter on the team who's the household name and commands the most money, to the player who's on the roster bubble throughout the season, making it to the NFL, let alone staying in it, is no easy task. Millions upon millions of little boys around the world dream of competing on the NFL field, hearing thousands of fans cheer for them at their home stadium. They play all throughout high school, looking for scholarship-opportunities in college. If they work hard enough and play well enough, they can attain one, showcasing their talents for all 32 NFL teams, looking to sign a contract one day. Then, if they're lucky enough, their name is called at the NFL Draft, announcing them as the newest member of one of the 32 organizations the NFL has to offer. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity that some cherish and strive to get better at, or let the opportunity slip through their fingers like so many others have in the past. For every Peyton Manning out there, there's always a Ryan Leaf, where the talent is there, but playing in the NFL never works out for some reason or another. Is it off-the-field problems? Possibly. Could it be a lack of dedication and a lackluster attitude? Maybe. For whatever reason, it unfortunately doesnt work out for each and every player. Once the season starts, every team can hold fifty-three players maximum, but its a constant struggle for most players to last on these rosters for the entire season. These teams are always looking to improve their rosters, so even if you have an immense amount of talent, if the production isnt there, you can kiss your opportunity goodbye. Here, then, are five players who must improve this season, or could face serious questions regarding their future in the NFL:
5. Jared Cook
One of the biggest off-season free agents this year, Jared Cook commanded a much bigger contract than many thought he deserved. Never scoring more than four touchdowns or passing 760 receiving yards in any of his four seasons thus far, Cook still managed to get himself paid with a five-year contract worth $38.5 million. The question that has plagued many NFL analysts and fans alike is this: was Cooks lack of production his fault, or the Tennessee Titans (his former team) underutilizing him throughout his career? Whatever the case may be, this was a hefty sum of money to give a man whose production hasnt met expectations. Everyone knows that Cook has the size (65) and speed to succeed in the NFL, but if he doesnt meet the standards set by his contract for this upcoming season, then we might just know the answer to the infamous question after all. http://youtu.be/sDb79EAePss