DB, I think DCE would lead to a FIRST party sponsor for the jersey coming on board almost straight away. My understanding is that most major jersey deals are in the 600 to 800k range.
In relation to third party deals most of them are in the 50-100k range. They have to be carefully structured as to avoid being included in the cap they must not be linked to existing club sponsors. However for example DCE could be given a third party deal by a company for example where he would plug the product and have his face on the adverts in the press. There would be a number of these he can sign up to.
Frankly I think sponsors, both new club sponsors and third party sponsors would come out of the woodwork if DCE signs up. As I said previously he would go a long way to covering his deal simply by the money he would attract back to the club. For example $BW increased the Roosters crowds hugely in his first year with them. A million bucks a year can be largely offset by the above and the increase in memberships, crowds and merchandise. Of course if you have a star studded team the impact would not be as great but DCE signing would be huge for the Coast in my opinion.
Geez I have almost convinced myself he should come here!