The NFL and the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA) have been working together to set the record straight on a number of issues for the upcoming season. Based on a few reports, The NFL has full authority to implement any rules that it deems to be appropriate for the 2020 season.
However, the NFLPA also has the ability to file an immediate grievance or protest if they deem that the conditions will contribute to an unsafe working environment.
With the ongoing collaboration, the NFL is hoping to ensure that no grievances have to be filed. The league needs the players involved to buy into their newly set protocols and conditions. That of course, requires them to be on the same page throughout all these issues.
The system's success will largely depend on having the players buy-in. After all, the spirit of the rules and protocols are aimed to maintain the safety of everyone involved. But these rules most be considered fair and not overly intrusive by the players themselves.
Recently, the league has already cut down the number of pre-season games in half due to the pandemic. According to ESPN's Dan Graziano, the NFLPA’s board of player representatives voted unanimously to recommend not playing any preseason games at all. The league officials will heed and deliberate specific concerns like this but it won't automatically result in an approval.
As per the New York Times, there are more than 3.1 million confirmed cases of the coronavirus in the United States alone and over 133,000 deaths attributed to it. Positive cases are also rapidly surging in several states and cities affiliated with NFL teams. These include New York, California, Arizona, Texas, Florida, Nevada, and more.
Like all us fans, the NFL and the Players Association just want football to return. Despite being on opposing sides for some issues, both parties know that neutralizing the coronavirus is still the priority.
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