Whenever my family talks sports, my grandmother always complains about how much athletes are paid more and more each year. I know their salaries are insanely high, but how much does it truly grow each year? The NFL salary cap limits how much a team can spend on salaries, making it an even playing field for all. As you can see, the salary cap change was higher than the average US salary change (as well as the inflation rate) in only 2 of the past 5 years. So yes, Grandma, they make loads of money, but our regular incomes are growing faster than theirs are.

Fascinating observations, Steven.Nicely done. One question: What are your sources?

I hoe Grandma doesn't take offense for this rebuttal.

Sorry about that, Professor. Forgot to add the "http" to the beginning of the links beforehand!

That is interesting. NFL is also a fascinating example because of how short the careers are and how debilitating the game is for so many players after their careers end. So, yes, they get paid a lot. But for many that is only for a short time that ends with tough 2nd career options and a lifetime of health issues ahead.