In a story that somewhat supports Mark Madden's recent column on Daniel Bryan, The Wrestling Observer is reporting that WWE is being cautious when signing smaller guys. Additionally, they are also planning to be more hesitant in general when it comes to signing talent with already-established names on the indy circuit.
Regarding smaller talent, WWE officials feel they have enough at this point. While there's no definitive rule when it comes to signing — or not signing — smaller guys, they will most likely be cutting back on how many they sign in the near future.
Even further, WWE doesn't feel like they have enough "big guys" on the roster, and there's a bit of an internal mindset that it's affecting business in a negative way.
When it comes to established indy stars in general — small or otherwise — that have achieved a certain level of success on their own, WWE's primary concern is breaking them of bad habits they create on the indy circuit.
Another interesting part about WWE signing new talent is that they want guys that feel they're unable to make it without WWE. Many established indy stars understand they can work WWE temporarily, return to the indies if things don't work out, and be even more successful than before.