NFLPA Preparing Players for Potential Lockout by Issuing Work Stoppage Guidebook
By Kevin Aquino
There's been little progress made during the NFL and the NFL Players Association's discussions over a new collective bargaining agreement. That's led to the union now issuing a "work stoppage guide" to its players for if and when a lockout occurs.
Both sides insist that a lockout will not occur after the current CBA's expiration following the 2020 season, as there's plenty of time to strike a new deal. But the dissemination of these guidebooks doesn't come off as a purely positive sign. If anything, the NFLPA is preparing for the worst.
Though the guidebook is technically a precautionary measure for a potential lockout, it actually has some helpful tips for everyday people trying to save money: save half your paycheck if expenses allow, cook at home instead of eating out, and dedicate a day each week to spending absolutely nothing at all.
Additional aspects of the guidebook include FAQs abut continued access to team facilities, whether the draft can still take place, and potential drug testing for athletes during a lockout.
More negotiation sessions between the two sides are scheduled for next week, but will only take place if enough progress is made this week. If talks remain at a standstill, there's no use in reconvening only to continue to run in circles.
The NFLPA rejected the proposition of an 18-game season last month, citing that extra games would not be in the best interest of any of the players.