Ready to buy Canon 400 2.8 III Need Advice

I am an experienced newspaper sports and wildlife photographer. I shoot a lot of American football. I also shoot lacrosse and soccer. I'm ready to buy the Canon 400 2.8 III. I'm currently shooting with a 7D and a Canon 70-200 2.8. I get good results, but realize I'm underpowered. I plan on handholding the 400 as much as is practical because that is how I like to shoot.

I tried ordering the lens on Amazon and they froze my account and it took several days (and lots of frustration) to get my account back up and running.

Curious where you guys recommend purchasing the lens and whether you think this lens will hold its value into the future. I'm also not opposed to adding a camera body.

Thanks!

Hi
I use a mk 1 of this lens, which is far heavier. However, I have handled mkIII's several times.
While it's a LOT lighter than the mk1...it's still the same size and the same narrow angle of view. It's weight is only one part of the equation and it's not light enough to hand hold for a full match.
You would be better served with a monopod to take the burden. It's worth skill up with your mono pod technique because it will better stabilise your lens.
A 70-200mm is easily hand hold able with it's image stabiliser. However, it's vastly different in size and bulk. Hand holding a 400mm f2.8 will show a lot more movement vibration and you will be fighting with the lens for composition.
When you do get one, seriously consider getting a Lens coat for it. My lens is over 15 years old and still looks mint because of the Lens coat.

Thank you!

I agree, even though it is light enough to handhold, I would definitely recommend a monopod. I'm using the Mark I version which is 12 lbs and lordy does it beat me up. Only able to hand hold for about a minute and that's it. Some tripods also turn into a monopod so you may have one already. Have fun.