One of the biggest items discussed regarding the new CBA is a rookie salary cap/scale.  Both sides seem to want it, as well as most fans, but I’m thinking that there may be a downside.  As an early 1st round pick, you are expected to play on one of the terrible teams in the NFL.  That grim reality is offset by the fact that you will be making an obscene salary on that 1st contract. Now, if the new CBA comes into play with a salary cap or scale for rookies, that contract is not going to be nearly as large as it was in previous years.  My thought is that a rookie cap will lead to an increase in Elway/Eli-esque scenarios.

Worst case scenario example:

The Bills select Ryan Mallett 1st overall in the 2011 draft.  Mallett takes a look at the current Bills team and what his max contract would be (mandated by the new CBA).  Realizing that he will not be making anything close to Sam Bradford money, Mallett decides playing for the Bills is not worth it, and outright refuses to sign with the Bills, forcing Buddy to trade him away.  Sure, the Chargers made a great deal when they traded manning…but the Elway trade pretty much closed the book on the Colts in Baltimore.