NFL players voted to approve ratification of the new collective bargaining agreement on Sunday, with a final tally of 1,019-959.
“NFL players have voted to approve ratification of a new collective bargaining agreement by a vote tally of 1,019 to 959. This result comes after a long and democratic process in accordance with our constitution. An independent auditor received submitted ballots through a secure electronic platform, then verified, tallied and certified the results,” the NFLPA wrote in a statement.
“We are pleased that the players have voted to ratify the proposed new CBA, which will provide substantial benefits to all current and retired players, increase jobs, ensure continued progress on player safety, and give our fans more and better football. We appreciate the tireless efforts of the members of the Management Council Executive Committee and the NFLPA leadership, both of whom devoted nearly a year to detailed, good faith negotiations to reach this comprehensive, transformative agreement,” NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement.
With the approval, there will be labor peace for at least 10 years, but several major changes are incoming.
- The NFL will expand to a 17-game season beginning in 2021 at the earliest.
- The preseason will be reduced to three games beginning in 2021 at the earliest.
- There will be a major playoff overhaul, including seven teams per conference with only one team receiving a bye.
- NFL teams will be permitted to use only one tag (franchise or transition) per year.
- The NFL will raise minimum salaries and improve player benefits.
- The NFL will overhaul their drugs/discipline policy beginning in 2020, with a failed test for marijuana no longer leading to a suspension.
- Post-June 1 cuts will still be permitted.
- Active game-day rosters will increase from 46 to 48 (with eight offensive linemen), while the full NFL roster size will increase from 53 to 55.
- The size of a team’s practice squad will increase to 12 players in 2020 and 14 players in 2022.
- NFL teams can now designate three players to return from injured reserve.
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