Friday, July 22, 2011

Welp...About the End to That Lockout...

Well kids...it felt so good last night, only have a nasty aftertaste this morning. Quick recap: the owners voted 31-0 to accept the new terms of the collective bargaining agreement (with the Oakland Raiders abstaining...I'll refrain from commenting on that). Basically, owners say "Joy! let's play ball!" They did, however, stipulate that the players would have some of next week to iron out any other changes and modifications to the proposed CBA.

Seems that the NFLPA is still deciding about whether or not to accept the new terms of the CBA. The NFLPA has also said they will release no more statements today (Friday) " out of respect for the Kraft family while they mourn the loss of Myra Kraft." While a vote is still possible today, I wouldn't hold your breath.

Apparently there are two major issues still being fought over by the players. They involve an opt-out clause seven years into the proposed ten year agreement and to be allowed to report to team facilities and vote in person on re-certifying as a union. Sounds like family trouble to me. That last part of their two major issues is due to the desire for electronic voting...makes sense to me, in the age of Twitter and e-mail, and the like.

Listen, I totally get the players side. I can understand the owners' point of view...but I'm also a fan. I just want to watch my favorite sport this fall. Please? Pretty please! Seriously now...

Some things to note...IF this deal is approved by the players, everything resumes IMMEDIATELY. This means beginning Saturday, workouts can begin at team facilities. Contracts can be touched and discussed, draft picks can finally be signed and teams can begin working on negotiations with free agents and undrafted rookies (hallelujah, amen, because the Falcons need a strong pass-rusher and I won't even start on the Broncos' free agency needs). Sunday, those undrafted rookies can be signed, and Wednesday is the biggie...free agency opens its gates all the way, training camps officially can begin, and the salary cap will officially be enforced.

Stay tuned to the ongoing lockout saga...I think we're all ready for a little football.

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