What condition applied to the Year 5 compensation for 1st-round draft picks was changed in 2018?

The condition that was changed in 2018 regarding Year 5 compensation for 1st-round draft picks relates to how it became based on certain qualifying criteria during the first three years of a player's contract. This adjustment was significant because it introduced a performance-based element to the determination of compensation, which aligns with the league's efforts to ensure that pay reflects not just a player's potential but also their performance and contributions on the field during their early years in the league.

This change emphasized incentivizing players to perform well early in their careers, as the amount they could earn in Year 5 was directly tied to the achievements and impact they made during those initial seasons. It reflected a broader trend in professional sports to connect performance metrics with financial rewards, encouraging accountability and excellence among athletes.