Report: Dolphins Slash Salaries
MIAMI (CBSMiami.com) – The NFL lockout has been a shameful display of greed and arrogance between billionaire owners and millionaire players. But now, the Miami Dolphins have even hit the lowest-salaried employees right in the pocketbook.
According to CBSMiami.com news partner the Miami Herald, the Dolphins informed everyone in the organization Tuesday about across the board pay cuts effective immediately.
The team cut salaries of those making more than $75,000 by 20 percent; those making below $75,000 will have a 15 percent cut; and those making below $50,000 will be hit with a 10 percent pay cut.
According to the Herald, employees were told that salaries would be put back to original levels whenever the lockout is lifted and players return to work.
What the Dolphins refused to reveal was whether the employees would receive back pay once the lockout ends. The players will receive back pay when they return, but the Fins refused to tell CBSSports.com if the salaries of employees would be reinstated.
Sources told the Herald that the Fins would consider returning any lost wages if the team meets ticket sales goals, but employees doubt that will happen.
The team blamed the salary cuts on lagging season ticket sales, which the team said was due to the lockout, according to the Herald. Internally, sources told the Herald that the move has caused a "clear decrease in employee morale."
Lost in the discussion was the fact that the Fins have put out a sub-par product for several seasons, which is likely driving flat season ticket sales as much as the lockout. Until the Fins start winning, fickle fans in South Florida will take their money elsewhere.
But, the owners will still get paid and the players will still get paid because they're at the top of the food chain. It's the grunts who truly keep the organization running who will suffer, just like in corporate America.
