What is the signing pay entitlement for players during the regular season?

The signing pay entitlement for players during the regular season is structured to accommodate both the player's immediate financial needs and the financial frameworks established by the NFL. When a player signs a contract, they are entitled to an unpaid balance which can be a percentage of the initial performance-based pay (P5), or it can be equivalent to two weeks of the minimum salary established by the league.

This structure allows players to receive a degree of financial security without the full burden of a signing bonus being paid upfront. It provides flexibility for teams while also ensuring that athletes are compensated fairly from the inception of their contracts. The provision about the unpaid balance catering to either 35% of the initial P5 or two weeks' worth of minimum salary ensures that players, especially those entering the league, receive some initial compensation promptly as they begin their professional careers.

The other options do not reflect the established standards of signing pay within the league. For example, full signing bonuses upon signing are not typically guaranteed in an amount that would bypass the clause regarding unpaid balances. Additionally, the idea that only the first week of salary is guaranteed fails to capture the comprehensive nature of players' entitlements upon signing. Lastly, a flat payment regardless of experience does not align with the principle of performance-based pay