Can a rookie contract have non-prorated signing bonuses?

Signing bonuses within rookie contracts in the NFL are required to be prorated over the length of the contract. This is a fundamental aspect of how the salary cap works. The NFL's collective bargaining agreement (CBA) dictates that signing bonuses are allocated evenly across the years of a player's contract for cap purposes, allowing teams to spread the impact of the bonus over time. This system helps maintain competitive balance within the league, ensuring that all teams can manage salaries effectively.

Thus, stating that signing bonuses are always prorated reflects the established rules governing rookie contracts. In addition, the correct understanding helps clarify how teams structure contracts to fit under the salary cap while still providing competitive compensation to incoming players. This is important for effective team management and compliance with league regulations.