It's a constant grind to get better for NFL players in the offseason, as athletes nationwide work to add speed and strength to prepare for the fall. And even though players are ultimately paid for what they do on Sundays, that doesn't mean that the work behind the scenes can't be rewarded.
Washington Redskins head coach Jay Gruden understands this better than anyone. In 2015, he started a custom in which the team's hardest workers during the offseason would be rewarded with the best parking spots at the team's Redskins Park training facility.
As this post to the Redskins' website on Friday confirms, the tradition has continued into 2016, as eight players were given personalized spots: linebacker Mason Foster, cornerback Bashaud Breeland, defensive lineman Kedric Golston, guard Brandon Scherff, wide receiver Pierre Garcon, tight end Logan Paulsen, tight end Niles Paul and linebacker Ryan Kerrigan.
Gruden rewards players with reserved parking.
Also, don't park in @Niles_Paul84's spot: https://t.co/ZtBYNoTZyN pic.twitter.com/NJDEgGAy3f— Washington Redskins (@Redskins) July 22, 2016
As the Redskins' Tweet spotlighted, Paul's spot had an extra bit of emphasis. The small note he posted on his own sign reads, "Niles Paul is here everyday. Please do not park in space."
The spots might seem like trivial motivation methods from a distance, but Gruden's scheme has worked so far; in the first season of the tradition, the Redskins took home their first division title since 2012. This year's squad will begin its title defense with an August 11 pre-season showdown against the Falcons.
More NFL offseason:
-- Martavis Bryant Endures Brutal Offseason Workouts Ahead Of Second NFL Season
-- NFL Rookies, This is How You'll Survive Your First Training Camp
-- James Harrison Lifts Almost 600 Pounds ... With His Hips?
