Some clarity has emerged about the NFLPA’s goals in negotiating opt-out provisions for its workforce.
The union is seeking a deal like the one established by Major League Baseball, with Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reporting that the NFLPA is targeting players who are most at risk of developing COVID-19 complications receive their wages if they opt out. (Twitter link).
Additionally, the NFLPA requests that players with at-risk family members receive a cumulative season toward free agency if they choose to stay out of the season, Fowler notes. Players who choose to play are looking for $ 250K stipends if they show up at training camp and the NFL is forced to stop the season. That hits less than half the league low.
Major League Baseball is giving players increased risks of developing COVID-19 complications (or those living with family members who fall into that category) pay and length of service if they choose not to participate. Baseball players who are not at greater risk by choosing not to participate do not receive their prorated salary or one year of service time. It’s unclear if the NFL is willing to agree to adopt a similar policy, but given the sport’s increased contact and roster size, players will be at greater risk of contracting the coronavirus. It is not yet known for sure when the deadline will be for the NFLers to unsubscribe.
The NFL will need a specific policy for when players report to camp. The league and union continue to negotiate, but many problems remain unsolved. Novice bosses and Texans are scheduled to show up at camp in less than a week.
Photo courtesy of USA Today Sports Images.
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