What does a rookie salary include?

The inclusion of contracted compensation in each year of the rookie contract is a fundamental part of a rookie salary. This compensation, defined when the contract is signed, outlines the player's financial remuneration that will be received over the duration of the contract. It is structured to provide stability and predictability for both the team and the player, ensuring that the player receives a set amount each year as part of the agreement.

While guaranteed bonuses, workout bonuses, and appearance fees could form part of the broader financial package surrounding a player's contract, they are not necessarily included in a rookie salary's base structure. These elements can be additional incentives or bonuses that may vary significantly between contracts or are contingent upon specific performance metrics or participation. Therefore, the contracted compensation directly reflects the agreed-upon salary for a rookie player, distinguishing it as the appropriate answer in this context.