Leagues Examine Ways to Decrease Wages for Rookies

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In most industries, new hires usually get the lowest pay. The big money comes later, with experience, promotions and proven performance.

Then there's professional sports.

Before even putting on a pro uniform, top rookies in the four major team sports are set for life. Year after year, owners shell out big bucks to unproven talent, sometimes paying newcomers more than all-star performers.

Leagues restrict rookies' bargaining power by assigning rights to one team, but contracts seem to grow bigger each year. Tired of paying so much, the owners are taking a Susan Powter approach to rookie salaries: "Stop the Insanity!"

The National Football League and …