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Beyond the immediate earnings and taxes, players often face additional financial challenges. The costs associated with maintaining multiple residences, managing travel logistics, and sometimes even transporting vehicles can become overwhelming. For instance, an athlete's daily travel can quickly become a matter of financial necessity rather than convenience, especially when considering the significant fines imposed for tardiness.
For many players, a late arrival can lead to fines amounting to thousands of dollars, leading them to rent or purchase accommodations closer to their work in order to mitigate the risk of a substantial financial penalty. This cumulative effect of costs associated with living as an NFL player greatly reduces the net benefits of lucrative contracts.