Who said lax players don't make money?
While it's true no lacrosse player is getting that six-figure multi-million dollar contract, NLL Franchise Players do make $25K, on top of sponsorships. That's not a bad little side-stream of income for guys playing a sport they love... But these guys have earned it.
Each franchise is allowed to name a maximum of two players who are 32 or older with at least six years' NLL service. Once designated as a franchise player, the club retains the players rights and commits to pay each the league-max of $25,552 US during the 16-game regular season. Carrying the Franchise Tag are the following 15 players:
Rob Blasdell, Derek Malawsky (Arizona Sting), Jake Bergey (Boston), Pat McCready (Buffalo Bandits), Craig Gelsvik, Kyle Couling (Calgary Roughnecks), Rich Catton (Colorado Mammoth), Curtis Palidwor, Mike Accursi (Edmonton Rush), Dallas Eliuk (Portland Lumberjax), Pat O'Toole, Shawn Williams (Rochester Knighthawks), Shaydon Santos (San Jose Stealth), Jim Veltman, Bob Watson (Toronto Rock).
Philadelphia, Chicago and New York did not declare franchise players... cheap asses! that or they don't have players 32 or older with more than six years experience - a requirement to earn Franchise status. we're not sure, and aren't going to check... but congrats to the 15 Franchise Players named this year for helping to pave the way for professional lacrosse.
