Just posted this on the draft forum:
They don't release the actual formula but it's predominantly done on contract. However, the fact that post season honours are a factor makes Golden's situation interesting. We're slotted to get a 4th from his salary, but he's a lock for the Pro Bowl at this stage and might even take All Pro honours if he keeps up his play. You'd have to think that 4th could then turn into a 3rd, but the NFL probably keep their formula under wraps so they can screw teams like us out of such compensation.
Regardless, our 2015 draft is looking fantastic, and even if we end up with the 4th for Golden it should look something like this...
1st
2nd
3rd
4th x 4 (Our original fourth plus comp' fourths for Golden and BB, plus a conditional if Percy remains with Jets)
5th x 2 (Original pick plus comp for Giac)
6th (Traded for Burley but should acquire one for WTIII or Clinton Mcdonald)
7th
That's 11 picks, 7 of which could come in the first 4 rounds.
Of course, Percy's not remotely close to being a lock for a 4th, but even if it ends up being a sixth we're looking at a really good situation that gives us plenty of manoeuvrability.
It's annoying that the formula isn't open to the public and whilst analysts have tried to decode it, they're still not certain.
I wonder if the original team's success might have something to do with it, and that a successful season for us may be detrimental to our chances of getting anything more for Tate.
I can't think of any of any examples where players have garnered a higher comp pick than their contract suggested, but I'm sure someone can?