Your role on a team is more than just a title.
The NFL has had over 26,000 different players in history, yet there are only 24 possible positions to play – titles. And although many have shared the same title, they are not the same.
Drew Brees, a quarterback, played for 20 seasons, became Super Bowl champion, NFL Offensive Player of the Year, and was selected to 13 Pro Bowls. That’s a stellar career.
Ryan Leaf, who shared the same title as Drew Brees, played for four seasons, argued with his coaches, statistically bombed on the field, and is largely considered one the of the worst quarterbacks in NFL history.
Your position comes with expectations. The team needs you to bring more to the table. Skills. Results.
Maybe you’re an expert, or a great teacher. Or maybe you’re good for the locker room and the team really likes you.
Morale and culture matter.
Don’t assume your title automatically gives you the same rights others with it have had. This backfires if you haven’t proven yourself in battle and won over your team’s hearts and minds.
Even great teammates have bad days. Your team may even decide not to toss you aside if you’ve lived up to the title you’ve been given.
Earning the starting position gets you on the field, but doesn’t guarantee you’ll stay.