First-round rookies Love and Bailey sign deals as 2026 NFL Draft class moves toward training camp
Jeremiyah Love and David Bailey are the latest first-round picks to ink rookie agreements, but officials warn that participation in minicamps does not equate to a secured roster spot.
The 2026 NFL Draft has officially concluded, shifting the focus for the 257 selected players toward the administrative necessity of signing rookie contracts. While the selection process is complete, the operational requirement for these athletes to be under contract by training camp remains a critical governance issue for the league.
Jeremiyah Love and David Bailey have been confirmed as the most recent first-round selections to have inked their agreements to join their respective teams for the upcoming season. These signings represent the standard procedural outcome for the draft class, governed by the non-negotiable rookie wage scale established under the 2011 NFL Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Under this framework, salary amounts are dictated by specific draft positions rather than individual negotiation, making the majority of these signings a formality. However, the league maintains a strict tracker for all 32 first-round picks to ensure compliance, noting that while most deals are routine, exceptions can and do occur.
Historical precedents highlight the risks of failing to secure a contract in time. The case of Shemar Stewart from the previous offseason serves as a notable example of complications arising when contractual obligations are not met, underscoring why the league emphasises the distinction between being selected and being under contract.
It is important to note that players may participate in minicamps and other offseason activities without a signed deal. Nevertheless, this arrangement is not a long-term solution; once training camp commences, every player must be officially under contract to avoid significant administrative complications for both the clubs and the athletes.
Salary figures for the confirmed deals are sourced via Spotrac, reflecting the rigid structure of the rookie wage scale. As the remaining first-round picks continue the process of signing, the league monitors the tracker closely to ensure the 2026 class adheres to the established protocols before the season begins.
