I distinctly remember reading that you got a bonus for being on a player in the first couple of recruiting cycles, however- I question whether that is accurate now. Does this still exist? Did it ever? Is it so small as to be inconsequential?

My understanding is that there is NOT a special bonus for the first couple of cycles.  BUT there is a modest considering bonus that starts to kick in on day two.

Yeah, that is what I was remembering. Thanks.

It really depends on username. I was very deft in my choice of a username. My username gives me the power to get the most possible credit immediately when I get on a recruit. So you shouldn't ever consider jumping on any of my guys. They're locked down like a Mexican drug lord in federal prison. Would anyone else like to share what power their username gives them? I notice for many posters their usernames give them the power of being giant annoying jackasses. I'd advise against choosing usernames with that power when registering for WIS.