Freakonomics Radio Why Does the Most Monotonous Job in the World Pay $1 Million? (Ep. 493 Update)
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Feb 16, 2023 Discover the surprising world of long snappers in the NFL, a position that epitomizes specialization in football. Their critical yet overlooked role keeps the game flowing, despite the challenges they face. Whispers of their journey from anonymity to million-dollar salaries reveal an evolution rooted in player safety and precision. Unpacking the rigorous training and dedication required, this deep dive illustrates why the most monotonous job in sports can lead to extraordinary financial rewards.
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Unsung Hero
- The 2023 Super Bowl highlighted the Chiefs' James Winchester, an often-unnoticed long snapper.
- Snappers like Winchester are crucial for field goals, yet they often go unnoticed unless something goes wrong.
Specialization = Prosperity
- Specialization, as described by Adam Smith, drives prosperity.
- Focusing on one specific skill leads to greater efficiency and overall economic gain, even in football.
Backup Guards as Snappers
- Rich McKay's father, John McKay, coached during a time when backup guards were often long snappers.
- These makeshift snappers weren't skilled, and games were often impacted by errant snaps.