I have to take care of my family

During the first few hours of the draft, the networks ESPN and the NFL Network have adopted the device of scanning the living rooms of the players who have not yet been drafted. ESPN's Suzy Kolber made it a point of mentioning numerous times that Matt Leinart had to WAIT 90 MINUTES before being drafted by the Arizona Cardinals.

Now we see sad-faced LenDale White trying to remain composed in that, unlike an anvil, he is falling out of the first round. His pride will be hurt. So, there's that.

But if 2006 is anything like 2005 _ and for his sake nothing like 2004 _ LenDale White won't be so affected too much in the wallet. First round picks in 2005 averaged a guaranteed signing bonus of 1.62 million, while second rounders averaged $1.37 million.

The year before, White would have reason to have his eyes sag. In that year, first rounders averaged $2.7 million in guaranteed money, compared to $1.3 million for second-round picks. Base salaries between first and second rounds were neglible.

By Howard Bryant |  April 29, 2006; 4:50 PM ET
Previous: Running back anyone? | Next: Why am I not buying this