is a hell of a jump from high school to college let alone college to the pros. Yes maybe the skill players MAY be somewhat ready but even that is not nearly the case in the great majority. Look at the struggles of wide receivers and quarterbacks early on. If there was a minor league it would take away the ability to get a degree which most players value anyway and at least give them a chance to succeed for the 35 years after a short career is over. 70% of NFLers go bankrupt within something like 3 years after they retire. The degree gives them a greater chance to avoid this.