As the NFL nears the end of its 2022 pre-season, fans can hardly wait for the regular season to start. The real games start when the teams play their “first-string” players. For the preseason most every team has played its reserve players so as not to get their regular players injured. They call it the championship season since preseason games don’t count toward the playoffs.

While that system is OK for the regulars (those players in the high salary brackets) the fans aren’t thrilled that the cost of the tickets is still high and they are watching their team play with players who will be “cut” when preseason ends. You see, each team brings 100-plus players into their training camps so that during the preseason the coaches can evaluate them for a spot on their regular roster. That’s what fans are seeing in the preseason. Coaches then begin to cut those they can’t keep.

“Coach wants to see you … and bring your playbook.” That’s the opening line from an assistant coach who is sent to deliver the message to a player about to lose his job. That pause is because that coach hates to deliver the bad news. When that “knock-on-the-door” comes as preseason ends and, for some, even sooner, it’s a most difficult time for all concerned. It means you’re fired! For players on the roster bubble, it’s tough.

Have you ever been fired? If you haven’t, let me tell you it’s a very trying experience. Imagine you are a standout high school and college player and have dreams/aspirations of playing professional football and now you get the ”knock on your door.” Your heart is in your throat and knots in your stomach. Your first thought is “What do I do now?”

What about your head coach who has to give you the bad news? Some coaches may appear cavalier about it as if you should have expected it. Most coaches understand this kind of news is a real heart-breaker and are most considerate about your future. Herm Edwards, who was the head coach of the New York Jets and Kansas City Chiefs, said it’s the most difficult part of his job. He took time and counseled each player he had to cut. He assured each one they had a future, while it may not be with his team or even in pro football. He emphasized that you should believe in your abilities and something will open up.

Will you build confidence in those you may have to fire?