Maybe it’s just a matter of semantics, but the term generational talent befuddles me. I understand both the denotation and connotation, but I’m confused by the overuse. I also get that it’s not an overt superlative, but I think the media implies a one of a generation talent.

Because there is no minor football league, first round selections in the NFL are supposed to be immediate on field contributors. Guys taken with the first 3 or 4 pics are supposed to make positive contributions in their first year. It might not be fair, but they are getting paid mightily, and now have probably done pretty well financially in college. Ergo, I’m not bothered if the pressure is too much for some high draft picks. and they quiver and quake under the glare of the media.

I have to laugh when the media proclaims a guy to be generational talent after spending half their college careers competing against mediocre to inferior talent. Furthermore, generational talent doesn’t always equal winning at the highest level.

GM.s and those tasked with talent evaluation and development have to balance the need to upgrade to generational talent or merely upgrade the position versus the hue and cry if the player doesn’t live up to lofty expectations. Of course, if the generational talent fails to live up to expectations they can fall back on the old “Everyone said he was that great” excuse. 

Personally, it’s been nice to have never been considered a generational talent.