Arizona Cardinals: Should we Worry Jonathan Cooper hasn’t signed?

May 10, 2013; Tempe, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals guard Jonathan Cooper (61) shoves defenders during Rookie Minicamp at the Cardinals Training Facility. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Concern has been raised over the fact that the Arizona Cardinals’ first round pick, Jonathan Cooper, has not signed a contract as of yet. He is the only member of this years draft class to not sign and arguably the most important rookie for the team this year.

There is no need to worry, most first round picks have yet to sign contract tenders. THe new CBA signed before the 2011 season locks in rookie contracts. Cooper and his agent are most likely waiting for the picks above him and below him to complete deals to make sure he does not miss out on any money.

With the new cba in place since 2011 there have been no rookie hold outs, they have no leverage to get more money. It is highly doubtful Cooper becomes the first hold out. He is the first gaurd selected in the top 10 in the last 10 years and will be making more money than any rookie player at his position.

If the contract is not signed by the beginning of July than Cardinal fans can start to worry. Until then rest easy knowing that the Cardinals drafted an elite gaurd and the team will be better this year than last.