The NFLPA and NFL have resumed talks, so far the new proposal includes a schedule for Covid-19 testing protocols, and canceling the preseason. After NFL players conjured up the #WeWantToPlay Tweet storm, the NFLPA followed suit with a statement of it’s own.
Our statement on Covid-19 testing procedures: pic.twitter.com/6mYF3aK0jm
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) July 20, 2020
NFL: Keeping up with the positives
Insider Field Yates of ESPN referenced the NFLPA’s Covid-19 testing results tracker, which was changed from 95 to 59. They had first included staff but later amended it to include only players.
So at current tally, 32 teams have submitted an IDER plan (Infectious Disease Emergency Response). Eight have been accepted by teams including the Kansas City Chiefs and the Houston Texans. Once again, only 59 players have tested positive for Covid-19.
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After previously listing on its website that 95 players leaguewide had a known positive COVID test, the NFLPA has updated its information: 59 players have had a known positive COVID test. pic.twitter.com/0hyXBaSUkV
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) July 22, 2020
Currently on the table
According to Albert Breer, there is a rough draft of a possible schedule for players to return to work. The league has offered a much more player friendly timeline and is stepping up to the challenge of keeping players safe.
Rough post-testing timeline NFLPA gave players tonight.
• Aug. 3-14: Acclimation period (strength & conditioning).
• Aug. 15: Practice ramp-up begins (helmets, then shells).
• Late Aug./Early Sept.: 8 padded practices prior to Week 1.(This one's still being negotiated.)
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) July 21, 2020
The short end of the stick
NFL players were informed on their conference call this evening (which is ongoing) that NFL's latest proposal calls for 80-man training camp rosters.
— Dan Graziano (@DanGrazianoESPN) July 21, 2020
While the league has acquiesced on key points to the NFLPA, the proposal is not without its shortfalls. Dan Graziano of ESPN, mentioned a caveat. Rosters will only contain 80 players in efforts to aid with social distancing.
Making the team as an undrafted free agent looks next to impossible. Unfortunately, many players will have to hope for an unplanned roster opening to get an opportunity. Teams will be down 10 roster spots, nor will they have preseason games to scout their own players.
To make matters worse for the UDFA’s, they aren’t a part of the NFLPA until they make the team. All of the protections along with pay stipends afforded to veterans and draftees, will not apply to them.
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Top Photo: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
