Source: Torch Newsletter (PWTorch.com)
For those hoping to see some top TNA superstars sign with WWE, word has it that WWE's last chance to make that reality will be next Wednesday. With TNA's video game deal (rumored to be with EA) supposedly almost complete, and TNA wanting to step up merchandising, most wrestlers were told they'd have to sign one-year merchandise contracts by 9/17. Although they don't all directly apply to wrestling, the general consensus is that failure to sign will mean that the superstar will no longer be used in TNA.
Some midcarders are said to be upset about having to lock into a deal with TNA, as some of the main-eventers already have. However, the backstage response to such frustration is that those stars have no other place to go, so it's not really that big a deal. Plus, many feel that if WWE had any interest, there would already have been negotiations.
Those in favor of the contracts also note that it will finally be some closure on their hopes of making it in WWE. With WWE only having a week to sign these stars, if they do not approach them, the wrestlers will know there was no interest. If they do get approached, the wrestlers will likely sign and appear with WWE soon.