Trust

National Football Post had an interesting column by NFL player agent Jack Bechta on the "most trusted" teams in the league. Bechta took his own informal poll of his fellow agents to determine which teams they trust the most while doing business. He used the following categories:

-Fairness in contract negotiations
-Open, honest, and direct communication about clients
-Injury settlements
-Medical care and the business decisions that go along with it
-The development of young players

Bechta pointed out that not every agent has dealt with every team in the last few years. There have also been some recent regime changes (Philadelphia Eagles, Kansas City Chiefs, etc.) that might not factor fairly into this poll. The poll still covered a great deal of the league. Collectively, the agents that Bechta polled represent over 250 active players.

Here are the top five teams mentioned the most by the agents polled with Bechta's comments:

Green Bay Packers-All but one agent polled had the Packers in the top five. There is no doubt that the Packers unique ownership structures helps to create an environment of accountability and openness.

Seattle Seahawks-The Seahawks are as easy going as their head coach and general manager. They don't play games and quickly let you know where you stand.

NY Giants-The Giants have a no nonsense professional approach that agents appreciate.

Minnesota Vikings-The front office people run the Vikings in a manner that agents seem to trust. They are not afraid to keep and pay their best players.

Jacksonville Jaguars-Despite their current struggles, agents know where they and their clients stand with this team. The owner is going to be patient during the rebuilding process and the decision makers are not panicking and are looking towards building for the long term. The brass is always responsive and quick to give you honest feedback on your clients.

The Pittsburgh Steelers, Atlanta Falcons, New Orleans Saints, and San Diego Chargers also received some love.

Sure is cool to see the Vikings on this list.

It's also great to see Jacksonville listed. I've heard a few interviews with Jaguars owner Shad Khan. He's new to the league and he's really trying to do things the right way. It's a slow, tough go right now but the dedication really seems to be there. Brighter days will come.