If you are looking to represent a 1st-3rd rounder for the 2010 NFL Draft, you have most likely already talked to that player about his insurance options leading up to this very important season. The last thing a top player may be thinking about is a season ending injury, let alone a career ending injury. Yet, as someone looking out for his long term financial interests, it shows that you are on top of your game if you are already pestering him about hedging his risks. And while Tim Tebow and other top players know that career ending injuries are rare in college football, he and others realize the importance of protecting yourself just in case.
Last year, I remember sitting on an airplane watching Brennan Marion tear his ACL on the very last play of the Conference USA Championship game. Brennan was a guy that we loved and had high expectations for; many at the time had said he could be picked as high as the 2nd round. While this was not a career ending injury (he was signed after the draft by the Miami Dolphins), it did kill his draft stock. What if it would have killed his chance at ever playing professional football? Strong insurance policies are important for highly touted prospects. A disability insurance policy, like those offered by Breeze Disability Insurance, could be a lifeline to those who become injured and are no longer able to perform in their job. There are also insurance companies that can give a little extra to those who apply for their coverage. For instance, NDIS can provide home visits, mental health assessments and a NDIS registered psychologist can assist in renewal of NDIS funding – click here to learn more.
There are two options for college players:
- Take out a policy with the NCAA’s Exceptional Student-Athlete Disability Insurance Program ($5 million maximum policy).
- Use a private agent (suggested for those with a lot to lose).
Very few players take out a policy before their senior year; however, someone like a Tim Tebow could have easily done so before last season. And while it is important to talk to those high on your list for the 2010 draft right now about protection, if they are Day 1 guys, they most likely already have coverage. It is still good to show that you are concerned.
Here is an excellent hypothetical time-line for an all-star athlete looking for guidance on when and how to obtain disability insurance in college.
