With training camp set to begin in the coming weeks, the NFL and NFLPA have suddenly made plenty of headway on several hot-button issues during negotiations. Among them has been their decision on the fate of the rest of the preseason.
Although the NFL had initially cut the number of preseason games down to two, the risks involved with playing meaningless games was too much for players leading up to the 2020 NFL season. According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, both sides have officially agreed that the entire preseason will be canceled among other topics:
– No preseason games in 2020
– Union still pushing for longer ramp-up period in camp
– Roster sizes expected to be 80 to start camp
– General agreement on voluntary and high-risk opt-out
– General agreement on stipend if games lost
The tremendous strides in negotiations are an encouraging sign that the 2020 campaign will proceed as scheduled. However, it appears that there are still no details of a finalized plan for those that opt to sit out this season.
The longer ramp-up period was seemingly deemed as non-negotiable by players after they took to social media to express their concerns about being able to prepare for the upcoming season in safe working conditions. While the lack of preseason and smaller roster sizes make it difficult for those on the bubble trying to make the team, the extended period should pay dividends for the health of their core players.
Meanwhile, both sides are also taking steps to determine a plan for players that have viable reasons for sitting out without concern over any significant repercussions to their contract.
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