Troy Polamalu might not know what the deal really is with his socially scattershot quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger. But he knows for sure what America needs. "America needs football," Polamalu, the Pittsburgh Steelers' five-time Pro Bowl safety, contended this week on a visit to William and Mary's football camp. As in woe to the NFL owners who, should it come to pass, lock out the players before the start of the 2011 season as part of contract negotiations. "It's a real blue-collar sport; it's played with a blue-collar mentality, a mentality that's the backbone of this country. And America needs that, especially in this time of crisis," Polamalu said. "It would be really selfish of any of the team owners, or anybody that has control in this situation, to take that away from the American public." Source: The Virginian-Pilot
Yeah, very blue collar to make half a million dollars a year plus mega benefits and then threaten to not allow these blue collar americans to see stars play because you need more money for your bling and crap. I have NO sympathy for most of these athletes. Stop asking for gigantic contracts and just play. I know everyone's going to say pay them what they're worth. Well, to be honest, they're not worth a whole lot. I'm sure you can find 100 people who will play for cheaper and could develop the same talent. Either way, this is one of the stupidest and most contradictory statements I've ever heard.
They're asking for gigantic contracts so they can make their money last. They're dedicating their life to this. Most of them, this is going to be their only source of income in their lives. Some maybe not, but some yes. Not saying that's right, but that's how it is. As far as anything else goes, it would be stupid and selfish indeed. And pointless.
