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Tiger Woods is the only athlete I’ve ever seen be given lifetime financial security at the outset of his career and perform every day as though he doesn’t have a nickel in his pocket. But Tiger was raised from birth to be the world’s best golfer.
OK, Glenn Dorsey, Jake Long, Chris Long, Matt Ryan and Darren McFadden, the players at the top of the 2008 NFL draft, weren’t given Tiger money. But it might feel like it to them. You never really know.
The addition of mega millions makes maturity even more important when developing young athletes. NFL owners and general managers are constantly weighing whether a young player can handle the responsibility of being rich.
The Rams selected Chris Long, a defensive end, with the second pick in the draft. He doesn’t have as much upside as Dorsey. But Long’s father, Howie, is in the Hall of Fame and a wealthy broadcaster for Fox.
Like Tiger Woods and the Mannings, Chris Long was groomed for NFL greatness at an early age.
I’m sure the Hunts and Peterson believe Dorsey can handle the wealth they just gave him. Well, “believe” is probably too strong a word. I’m sure they hope he can handle all that money and still retain the attitude necessary to excel in the trenches.
To reach Jason Whitlock, call 816-234-4869 or send e-mail to jwhitlock@kcstar.com. For previous columns, go to KansasCity.com.
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