The ongoing labor negotiations between the NFL and the players’ union are unfolding in various ways. Formal, full-blown bargaining sessions occur infrequently. Meetings of subcommittees addressing the various and sundry issues between the two sides are happening more often. Communications, verbally and in writing, are being exchanged all the time.
Publicly, the two sides are trying to drive public opinion on some issues while at the same time withholding information that, for whatever reason, they choose not to disclose. For example, the union filed a collusion claim last week, but the union has declined to date to acknowledge that the filing was made.
According to Liz Mullen of SportsBusiness Daily, the NFLPA made a concession regarding the revenue split between the league and the players in December. The union first revealed the proposal last week.
The proposal gives the owners more credit for investments in the game, like stadium construction. It also seeks continuation of the league’s supplemental revenue sharing plan, with adjustments aimed at making the plan more acceptable to the high-revenue teams that routinely grouse about having to share the fruits of their entrepreneurial endeavors with franchises not willing to spend money in order to make money.
One of the primary sticking points between the two sides has arisen from the league’s desire to shrink the size of the slice that the players receive, in the hopes of growing the entire pie. The players have resisted any reduction, demanding justification for shrinkage via the disclosure of financial records.
The proposal also adjusts the salary cap in a way that creates incentives to invest in stadiums and other revenue-generating activities.
Jay Glazer of FOX reported that the two sides will meet later this week, or possibly next week. The owners are meeting today in Atlanta.
Hopefully, the proposal quietly made last month will help move the parties toward a new deal.