Do players really "care" as much as fans do?

[GRWatcher]

To be a football player, to make it to the NFL level, these guys have to be the most competitive people on the planet. It's what gives them the edge to play, to sacrifice their health for the game. I can't imagine that fans "care" more than the players. Even those that seem like slackers to fans have more competition in their blood than the average fan.

This may seem obvious but no one has mentioned it. There are relatively few millionaires on a team of 53 + practice squad. Most of the players play for the love of the game, to be part of the team. To be part of the competition.

[dimbee]

It depends on the player. You can't paint them all with the same brush.

[Wither]

This may seem obvious but no one has mentioned it. There are relatively few millionaires on a team of 53 + practice squad. Most of the players play for the love of the game, to be part of the team. To be part of the competition.

But I think you can easily make the argument that it's definitely a glamorous profession and that players get compensated accordingly. It's definitely a "career" that is not rivaled by many others. I think you have to factor that in as well as the love for the game.

[Jbro]

Do you honestly go to your job and really deep down care more about who you are helping at your job/ line of work more then yourself / your pay check?

[Wither]

Do you honestly go to your job and really deep down care more about who you are helping at your job/ line of work more then yourself / your pay check?

No, but it's not like I only care about myself or my pay check.

Also, I don't have a job that involves playing a sport, nor a job that is historically known for being about zeal.

[SOTY89]

I think comes down to that player's situation, example Randy Moss. If your with a good franchise that wins, I bet you'll practice and do other things with a little more hop in your step. I'm sure players on the Giants, Colts, and Patriots care a lot more then players on Oak, St. Lou, and the Lions. When it comes down to it, their making good money either way.

[Jangler]

I work on a Viking ship, So if one guy doesn't care then we all pay!

[fignewty314]

It depends on the player. You can't paint them all with the same brush.

I totally agree.When I worked at the gym some people I trained I did not have to push,they would be there waiting on me,some I had to call and ask why are you paying me for if you never show,but keep mailing the check!

[Montsta]

I think the rah rah is fine from time to time. But produce. All I care is you produce per your spot. That is what you get paid to do. If you can't you are not a man. End of story.

Yes. I've been saying for a long time what makes a man is a fridge full of fresh produce...

[GRWatcher]

But I think you can easily make the argument that it's definitely a glamorous profession and that players get compensated accordingly. It's definitely a "career" that is not rivaled by many others. I think you have to factor that in as well as the love for the game.

That is so true and a good point. IMO that's where the competitive nature comes in. Along with confidence and pride.

There are other professions not associated with sport where this happens. The movie industry for example. The stars get the millions but most people working on the film do not. They have to love what they do, enjoy being part of the "team", the experience. But IMO they will forever be more enthusiastic about the movie than any fan.