The autograph controversy is getting out of hand. In less than a week, two top players, last year's Heisman trophy winner and a front runner for this year's award, are both linked to an autograph authenticator. James Spence Authentication has verified over 500 Todd Gurley autographs and over 900 Jameis Winston autographs. Gurley supposedly received $400-500 to sign on one occasion. One unnamed source on the internet claims that Gurley was paid thousands for autographs and game equipment. No one has come forward with evidence of Winston being paid yet.
Here is the major problem. Even though these guys know the rules and know that taking any money puts their eligibility at risk they shouldn't take all the blame. These dealers and brokers hand these guys money to sign stuff knowing they're not going to turn it down. The players take all the risk and the dealers get all the rewards. There should be some way to hold these people accountable but there isn't. It's a great business plan, as popular as college football is they know the memorabilia will sell. The only thing that truly makes sense is for the NCAA to loosen their grip on these players so they can reap some rewards for their popularity.
I do still believe that the players should have the sense to stay out of trouble. Maybe it is time for the rules to change.
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