Each NFL team that makes a first-round draft selection faces a big decision once that player’s fourth year rolls around. The question they have to ask is: Will that player be part of their future, and if so, is he worth an extension for one year or more? All first-round draft choices are eligible for a fifth-year option, which gives teams more control, but with a high price tag.
This year, several teams have already picked up fifth-year options for 2025 or, in some cases, declined them. Especially in the past week, teams have signed some of those players to long-term extensions.
Teams have until May 2 to make a decision on the option.
Here is the current status of every fifth-year option from the 2021 NFL draft.
Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
Credit: Mike Dinovo-USA TODAY Sports
Player: Justin Fields
Position: Quarterback
Option (Projected Contract): Declined by Pittsburgh Steelers, who acquired Fields in a March trade.
Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Player: Pat Surtain II
Position: Cornerback
Option (Projected Contract):
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at Vikings Wire…