Final answer:
Gene Upshaw, former director of the NFLPA, was an advocate for players using lawyers instead of sports agents for legal representation, focusing on the players' long-term well-being.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gene Upshaw, former director of the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA), was known for being a significant critic against the influence of sports agents on players. He often advised players to seek legal representation from lawyers rather than relying on agents.
This advocacy stemmed from his concern that agents might not always have the players' best interests at heart and could focus more on their own profit. Upshaw's leadership in the NFLPA was marked by efforts to improve player conditions, including salary and retirement benefits. He was a definitive voice in encouraging players to prioritize their long-term security and well-being over immediate gains that agents might promise.
For athletes, especially in high-stakes environments such as the NFL, the decision to choose between a sports agent or a lawyer can be critical. The guidance provided by Upshaw reflects the need for informed decision-making when it comes to career management and financial security. His advice has left an enduring mark on how players approach their representation in a complex sports industry.