Hakeem Nicks is not getting a new deal just yet, but when he does, Philadelphia Eagles receiver Jeremy Maclin will have a much easier time gauging his own price.
The New York Giants’ receiver is set to become a free agent at season’s end, as is Maclin himself. Having entered the league at the same time — as first-round picks in the 2009 NFL draft — both players will draw comparisons as their respective teams work to structure their next contract.
Though most would agree that Nicks is the more talented player, production indicates they’re much closer than one might realize. In 55 games, Nicks has 255 receptions for 3,726 yards and 27 touchdowns; Maclin has 258 receptions for 3,453 yards and 26 touchdowns in 59 games.
The Giants’ elite pass-catcher has spent much of his career battling injuries and playing through them. Maclin has spent his entire pro career with a revolving door of struggling quarterbacks. The latter could easily make the case that the strife surrounding the quarterback position has directly affected his production and kept him from developing into the high-profile receiver he has the potential to be.
Despite his tendency towards injury, Nicks is expected to get a hefty offer from the Giants — or another NFL team — once the free-agency period gets underway. Should that happen, don’t be surprised if Maclin makes a push for more money even if most believe he doesn’t deserve it.
The NFL is a business — as if that isn’t iterated enough — and who could possibly blame Maclin for maximizing his worth? Whether such a demand would provide the former Missouri Tiger with a big slap back to reality remains to be seen.
This is something to certainly keep an eye on as the season goes on and both players work on new deals from their respective teams. If Maclin has a strong year for the Eagles and Nicks inks a big-time contract, Maclin will own a dramatic advantage over the Eagles in contract discussions.
Louis Musto is a reporter and sports talk host for the Sports Journey Broadcast Network. You can follow him on Twitter @LouisMusto.