A Financial Approachto Athlete Representation
We don't just negotiate contracts — we optimize what you actually keep after taxes. Compare your take-home pay across all 32 NFL teams in seconds.
The Only Representation Built Around Your Net Income
Most agents focus on the next contract.
We focus on the full picture — contract structure, tax impact, and long-term financial outcomes.
With a background in accounting and corporate finance, our approach is designed to help players make better decisions at every stage of their career.
Contract Negotiation
Deep financial analysis and market intelligence to maximize contract value and long-term protection.
Financial Strategy
Tax-aware contract structuring, take-home optimization, and coordination with your advisory team.
Career Planning
From draft preparation to post-career transition, we build strategies that extend beyond the field.
Raymond Merk — CPA | NFLPA Advisor Focused on Maximizing Take-Home Income
Raymond Merk is a Certified Public Accountant and former public company CFO who specializes in optimizing athlete compensation through tax-aware contract structuring and financial strategy.
Through 5th Quarter Sports Management, he helps athletes evaluate contracts based on what they actually keep — not just headline value — using proprietary tax modeling tools and long-term financial planning. He has developed proprietary tools to compare after-tax earnings across teams, helping players identify the true value of competing offers.
- Tax-aware structuring that helps maximize take-home value.
- Risk management and capital allocation with a long-term lens.
- Negotiation strategy built around sustained career outcomes.
The Game After the Game
The 5th quarter is what happens after the final whistle — the financial decisions that determine long-term success. That's where we excel.
Financial Rigor
Every decision is grounded in financial analysis, not hype.
Tax Intelligence
Contract structuring with tax implications at the forefront.
Aligned Interests
Your long-term wealth is our measure of success.
Trusted Network
Coordinated access to vetted tax, legal, and investment professionals.
Ready to Discuss Your Future?
Whether you're preparing for the draft, exploring representation options, or looking for a more strategic approach to your career — we'd like to hear from you.