The 2020 NFL season is approaching fast, and due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, there’s some uncertainty on if it will take place. League and the NFLPA now have to come to an agreement on what the parameters for the upcoming season will be.
The NFL plans to give the players an opt-out option if they decide to not play this season, however, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported the players are seelking more demands.
They’re seeking an opt-out option for at-risk players to receive their salary (not bonuses) if they decide not to play. Two other opt-out clauses they’re demanding is for players with at-risk families to earn an accrued season with benefits and for players who decide to leave after reporting to the team.
The players are also looking for a $250,000 guaranteed stipend if a player decides to leave due to COVID-19 concerns. That amount would go up to $500,000 if the season starts and gets shut down.
The league recently asked to put 35% of this season’s salaries in escrow. Players don’t want any salaries put in escrow and don’t want any reduction in the 2021 salary cap despite the projected revenue loss.
No talks between the two sides have been after conversing over the last several days.
There are other issues to be ironed out as well.
The players want to test every day and preseason games to be eliminated, but the NFL wants less frequent testing and two preseason games. Also, the players want a lot of time to get acclimated before the start of full practices to avoid injuries.
Trimming the normal 90-man rosters to avoid unnecessary contact must be decided on as well.
Plenty of details have to ironed out between the NFL and the NFLPA if this most unusual of seasons is to take place.
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