As we head into the opening of training camp for the Atlanta Falcons, I thought it was interesting that these two guys are going in somewhat different directions.

First there is this year’s first round draft choice Peria Jerry who just signed a nice fat juicy five year contract. Financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed, but according to the ajc:

Last season, Tennessee selected running back Chris Johnson with the 24th pick, and he received a five-year, $12 million deal, of which $7 million was guaranteed. Johnson had a base salary of $295,000 in 2008 — followed by $385,000 in 2009, $550,000 in 2010, $800,000 in 2011 and $960,000 in 2012.

Like I said. A nice fat juicy contract. I hope Peria does well and anchors the d-line for years to come.

And on the other end you have 2005 first round draft choice, Pro Bowl wide receiver Roddy White. He wants some more duckets.

White’s position is that he could suffer a career-ending injury, and there are no fully guaranteed contracts in the NFL. He said during the offseason that he wanted to have his contract situation resolved before the season started. What wasn’t clear was whether White meant the start of training camp or the start of the regular season.

However, the Falcons are under no duress to complete an extension. White is under contract for the season and could become a restricted free agent for one year because the NFL owners opted out of the collective bargaining agreement with the NFLPA, the player’s union, and could face “uncapped” salary requirements next season. White would lose the leverage that comes with entering unrestricted free agency when his contact expires.

I can understand White’s position, but one year does not a contract make. I hope he reports and does not try to hold the Falcons for ransom. I do think that White can become a premier receiver, so I hope they work out the details behind the scenes and everyone lives happily ever after.

Hot damn, Falcons training camp opens tomorrow!