2 months ago
The NFL and the NFL Players ******* ociation have agreed to a new three-strike formula that will trigger automatic suspensions for repeated violations of five specific safety rules: hip-drop tackles, horse-collar tackles, launching, hits on defenseless players, and blindside blocks.
Per the NFLPA, the new procedure doesn't commence until the 2026 regular season. Which means that players who were fined for any of the five specific rules won't carry them into the games that count.
That's good news for any of the various players who were dinged for the infractions that otherwise would have counted toward a potential suspension.
It applies to Cardinals safety Dadrion Taylor-Demerson, who was fined $7,148 for a hit on a defenseless player in Week 2 of the preseason. And to Cardinals safety Wydett Williams, who was fined $4,935 for a hit on a defenseless player in the same game.
And to Bengals linebacker Shaka Heyward, who was fined $5,972 for a hip-drop tackle in Week 2 of the preseason. (He's currently on Cincinnati's practice squad.) And to Chiefs tight end Jake Briningstool, who was fined $4,972 in Week 2 of the preseason for a blindside block.
#defenseless #preseason #specific #rules
Per the NFLPA, the new procedure doesn't commence until the 2026 regular season. Which means that players who were fined for any of the five specific rules won't carry them into the games that count.
That's good news for any of the various players who were dinged for the infractions that otherwise would have counted toward a potential suspension.
It applies to Cardinals safety Dadrion Taylor-Demerson, who was fined $7,148 for a hit on a defenseless player in Week 2 of the preseason. And to Cardinals safety Wydett Williams, who was fined $4,935 for a hit on a defenseless player in the same game.
And to Bengals linebacker Shaka Heyward, who was fined $5,972 for a hip-drop tackle in Week 2 of the preseason. (He's currently on Cincinnati's practice squad.) And to Chiefs tight end Jake Briningstool, who was fined $4,972 in Week 2 of the preseason for a blindside block.
#defenseless #preseason #specific #rules
2 months ago
The NFL and NFL Players ******* ociation have agreed to a new system aimed at enhancing player safety. It calls for a suspension if a player violates a given rule three times in the same year.
The five applicable rules are hip-drop tackles, horse-collar tackles, launching, hits on defenseless players and blindside blocks.
The suspension applies only if a player commits three violations of the same rule. For example, three hip-drop tackles will trigger a suspension. Two hip-drop tackles and one horse-collar tackle won't.
So how would this new procedure have applied in recent years? Per a source with knowledge of the situation, the NFLPA informed players on Wednesday that one player would have been suspended in 2024, and one player would have been suspended in 2025.
Players often view fines as the cost of playing football the way they believe football should be played. The possibility of a suspension should make them view it differently, because a third violation of the same rule will keep them off the field.
#player #suspension #rule
The five applicable rules are hip-drop tackles, horse-collar tackles, launching, hits on defenseless players and blindside blocks.
The suspension applies only if a player commits three violations of the same rule. For example, three hip-drop tackles will trigger a suspension. Two hip-drop tackles and one horse-collar tackle won't.
So how would this new procedure have applied in recent years? Per a source with knowledge of the situation, the NFLPA informed players on Wednesday that one player would have been suspended in 2024, and one player would have been suspended in 2025.
Players often view fines as the cost of playing football the way they believe football should be played. The possibility of a suspension should make them view it differently, because a third violation of the same rule will keep them off the field.
#player #suspension #rule
2 months ago
New England Patriots rookies' jerseys will have a special addition on them when they take the field for the first time this season.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, beginning this season, the NFL's rookies will wear Topps' Debut Patches on their jerseys in their respective debuts, before the patches are placed in one-of-one trading cards after their first games conclude.
Topps returned to the NFL during the spring, as their parent company Fanatics, as well as the NFL and NFLPA, came together to make the famous brand the league's official trading card licensee. The Debut Patch commemorates the brand's return to the league.
The Patriots have several rookies generating much anticipation ahead of the season, including Gabe Jacas and Caleb Lomu, who will get to help Topps put themselves back on the NFL map on the biggest stage. They, along with the rest of New England's first-year players, will get the chance to wear the patches in their first game action in the upcoming 17-game slate.
Follow Patriots Wire on Twitter and Facebook.
#Patriots #first #jerseys
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, beginning this season, the NFL's rookies will wear Topps' Debut Patches on their jerseys in their respective debuts, before the patches are placed in one-of-one trading cards after their first games conclude.
Topps returned to the NFL during the spring, as their parent company Fanatics, as well as the NFL and NFLPA, came together to make the famous brand the league's official trading card licensee. The Debut Patch commemorates the brand's return to the league.
The Patriots have several rookies generating much anticipation ahead of the season, including Gabe Jacas and Caleb Lomu, who will get to help Topps put themselves back on the NFL map on the biggest stage. They, along with the rest of New England's first-year players, will get the chance to wear the patches in their first game action in the upcoming 17-game slate.
Follow Patriots Wire on Twitter and Facebook.
#Patriots #first #jerseys
2 months ago
On Wednesday, the NFL and the NFL Players **** ociation [NFLPA] announced that the sides have reached an agreement on an updated "on-field accountability system," which was approved by a vote of the board of Player Representatives on Tuesday, and communicated to the players on Thursday.
The stated goal of these changes is to, according to a joint statement from the league and the NFLPA, "make the game safer by focusing discipline on the techniques most likely to result in player injury rather than players who make isolated mistakes during competition." As a result, five penalties will see a greater emphasis this season:
Hip drop tackles
Horse collar tackles
Launching
#nflpa
The stated goal of these changes is to, according to a joint statement from the league and the NFLPA, "make the game safer by focusing discipline on the techniques most likely to result in player injury rather than players who make isolated mistakes during competition." As a result, five penalties will see a greater emphasis this season:
Hip drop tackles
Horse collar tackles
Launching
#nflpa
2 months ago
The NFL and NFLPA announced on Wednesday that they had reached an agreement on a new system of fines and suspensions for penalties that violate health and safety rules.
Both sides said in a joint statement that they have worked over the years on ways to "make the game safer by focusing discipline on the techniques most likely to result in player injury rather than players who make isolated mistakes during competition."
As such, they are placing greater sanctions on five player health and safety rule violations. The five categories are:
Hip Drop Tackle
Horse Collar Tackle
#tackle #player #wednesday #drop
Both sides said in a joint statement that they have worked over the years on ways to "make the game safer by focusing discipline on the techniques most likely to result in player injury rather than players who make isolated mistakes during competition."
As such, they are placing greater sanctions on five player health and safety rule violations. The five categories are:
Hip Drop Tackle
Horse Collar Tackle
#tackle #player #wednesday #drop
2 months ago
The NFL is expanding the mental health resources available to players and their families.
Beginning Sept. 1, NFL players and any family members on their insurance plan will gain access to a network of vetted clinicians in every NFL city. Players can use these resources, in addition to in-house clinicians, without visit limits or coinsurance requirements, NFL vice president of wellness and clinical services Dr. Nyaka NiiLampti told Yahoo Sports.
The network launch comes in the wake of a spring announcement by the league to increase mental health resources in three tiers following the deaths by suicide of Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland and Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Rondale Moore last November and February, respectively.
The league announced in March that it was increasing its in-house clinical presence to require teams to staff full-time mental health clinicians, up from the previous requirement that teams staff clinicians at least eight to 12 hours a week as mandated by the NFL-NFLPA collective bargaining agreement. The NFL also has sought to increase efforts to support the mental health of players battling injuries, as Moore had in the years prior to his death. And the NFL and NFLPA partnered with Cigna Healthcare to create this network.
"Historically the sense was that players don't use mental health resources," NiiLampti told Yahoo Sports by phone on Tuesday. "Sports is a microcosm of society. So in the last few years we've seen everybody increase their use of mental health resources and this population is no different. And so we've probably had more difficulties trying to find a provider than we have had people willing to use the resource.
#sports #niilampti
Beginning Sept. 1, NFL players and any family members on their insurance plan will gain access to a network of vetted clinicians in every NFL city. Players can use these resources, in addition to in-house clinicians, without visit limits or coinsurance requirements, NFL vice president of wellness and clinical services Dr. Nyaka NiiLampti told Yahoo Sports.
The network launch comes in the wake of a spring announcement by the league to increase mental health resources in three tiers following the deaths by suicide of Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland and Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Rondale Moore last November and February, respectively.
The league announced in March that it was increasing its in-house clinical presence to require teams to staff full-time mental health clinicians, up from the previous requirement that teams staff clinicians at least eight to 12 hours a week as mandated by the NFL-NFLPA collective bargaining agreement. The NFL also has sought to increase efforts to support the mental health of players battling injuries, as Moore had in the years prior to his death. And the NFL and NFLPA partnered with Cigna Healthcare to create this network.
"Historically the sense was that players don't use mental health resources," NiiLampti told Yahoo Sports by phone on Tuesday. "Sports is a microcosm of society. So in the last few years we've seen everybody increase their use of mental health resources and this population is no different. And so we've probably had more difficulties trying to find a provider than we have had people willing to use the resource.
#sports #niilampti
3 months ago
Mike Macdonald's success as Seattle Seahawks head coach is usually attributed to the sweeping overhauls he's made to their defensive scheme and the top-end talent they've acquired. The way he emphasizes the seemingly smaller details among the lesser-known players is the most revealing piece about their culture.
Check out this tidbit Hawk Blogger shared on X from Saturday's public training camp practice.
Macdonald knows these players have everything to gain and nothing to lose by signing autographs. Some fan favorites become such through their off-field interactions just as much as their on-field contributions. More importantly, though, he instills his beliefs in his team through his actions. Players enjoy the clear and consistent communication. They grade it well in the NFLPA Report Card yearly. They'd rather be actively coached in the small details than given more leeway.
This action from Macdonald embodies one saying you'll hear at any football team's practice. The "weakest link" idiom, which is commonly attributed to Scottish philosopher Thomas Reid's 1769 work Essays on the Intellectual Powers of Man, is used in football to say "a team is only as strong as its weakest link." Macdonald takes that to heart when referring to the roster as "The 70" to include the practice squad. He calls the lineup "12 as one" to emphasize the sport as the ultimate team game.
This article originally appeared on Seahawks Wire: Seattle Seahawks HC Mike Macdonald elaborates on team culture
#Seattle #culture
Check out this tidbit Hawk Blogger shared on X from Saturday's public training camp practice.
Macdonald knows these players have everything to gain and nothing to lose by signing autographs. Some fan favorites become such through their off-field interactions just as much as their on-field contributions. More importantly, though, he instills his beliefs in his team through his actions. Players enjoy the clear and consistent communication. They grade it well in the NFLPA Report Card yearly. They'd rather be actively coached in the small details than given more leeway.
This action from Macdonald embodies one saying you'll hear at any football team's practice. The "weakest link" idiom, which is commonly attributed to Scottish philosopher Thomas Reid's 1769 work Essays on the Intellectual Powers of Man, is used in football to say "a team is only as strong as its weakest link." Macdonald takes that to heart when referring to the roster as "The 70" to include the practice squad. He calls the lineup "12 as one" to emphasize the sport as the ultimate team game.
This article originally appeared on Seahawks Wire: Seattle Seahawks HC Mike Macdonald elaborates on team culture
#Seattle #culture
3 months ago
The NFL Players ******* ociation has investigated the circumstances surrounding the recent ACL tear suffered by Panthers linebacker Nic Scourton. And the NFLPA has concluded that the Panthers did nothing wrong.
Per a source with knowledge of the situation, the NFLPA has reviewed the video of the injury. It confirmed the preliminary conclusion that it was simply an unfortunate injury.
The issue became a proper subject of curiosity given the negotiated limits of the five-day acclimation period. Among other things, it mandates no contact during practice.
Ultimately, it's one of the basic realities of training camp. A season-ending injury can happen at any time, to any player. And any one injury could potentially alter a team's prospects for the season.
Depending on the player and the team, it could alter the entire landscape of the coming season.
#panthers #player
Per a source with knowledge of the situation, the NFLPA has reviewed the video of the injury. It confirmed the preliminary conclusion that it was simply an unfortunate injury.
The issue became a proper subject of curiosity given the negotiated limits of the five-day acclimation period. Among other things, it mandates no contact during practice.
Ultimately, it's one of the basic realities of training camp. A season-ending injury can happen at any time, to any player. And any one injury could potentially alter a team's prospects for the season.
Depending on the player and the team, it could alter the entire landscape of the coming season.
#panthers #player
3 months ago
The NFLPA's P.R. push for grass fields should focus less on making a broad-brush effort to shame the owners into choosing a better surface and more on getting specific teams to flip. That effort, as previously explained, should start with the Seahawks, who are in the process of getting a new owner.
On Tuesday, a pair of Seattle veterans made the case for grass during training-camp press conferences.
Defensive lineman Leonard Williams was asked whether seeing temporary grass at Lumen Field for the World Cup made him wish the grass would remain permanently.
"For sure," Williams told reporters, "I think the whole NFL felt that way. We obviously prefer to be on grass. It's less impact, better on the body. I understand there's a lot of things that go into having grass in the stadium that I don't fully understand yet, but if it was up to a player and it just came down to grass or turf, we obviously prefer grass."
Receiver Cooper Kupp was initially more concise. "That would be sweet," he said with a laugh.
#obviously #understand
On Tuesday, a pair of Seattle veterans made the case for grass during training-camp press conferences.
Defensive lineman Leonard Williams was asked whether seeing temporary grass at Lumen Field for the World Cup made him wish the grass would remain permanently.
"For sure," Williams told reporters, "I think the whole NFL felt that way. We obviously prefer to be on grass. It's less impact, better on the body. I understand there's a lot of things that go into having grass in the stadium that I don't fully understand yet, but if it was up to a player and it just came down to grass or turf, we obviously prefer grass."
Receiver Cooper Kupp was initially more concise. "That would be sweet," he said with a laugh.
#obviously #understand
3 months ago
Nate Tice sits down with Domonique Foxworth to cover how the NFL game is evolving over time, including the biggest issues the league faces entering the 2026 season.
Nate & Domonique cover how NFL training camp attempts to prepare players for the rigors of a season with less and less full contact, the future of NFL defenses (and why it might be built around the safety position), what Domonique watches for when watching ball, changing offensive tendencies and how defenses can pick them apart and the most under-appreciated NFL "rule breakers" on defense (including Kyle Hamilton and Jalen Pitre).
Later, Domonique provides his insight as former president of the NFLPA as the duo dive into the state of the NFL Player's ****** ociation: What should be the hardline issues players are fighting for in the next CBA? Could there be a labor strike looming? How do NFLPA execs decide what's worth fighting for?
(1:40) - How NFL training camp is evolving, preparing for a long season
(12:50) - How the NFL game is evolving: players, tendencies, trends
#evolving #season #nflpa
Nate & Domonique cover how NFL training camp attempts to prepare players for the rigors of a season with less and less full contact, the future of NFL defenses (and why it might be built around the safety position), what Domonique watches for when watching ball, changing offensive tendencies and how defenses can pick them apart and the most under-appreciated NFL "rule breakers" on defense (including Kyle Hamilton and Jalen Pitre).
Later, Domonique provides his insight as former president of the NFLPA as the duo dive into the state of the NFL Player's ****** ociation: What should be the hardline issues players are fighting for in the next CBA? Could there be a labor strike looming? How do NFLPA execs decide what's worth fighting for?
(1:40) - How NFL training camp is evolving, preparing for a long season
(12:50) - How the NFL game is evolving: players, tendencies, trends
#evolving #season #nflpa
4 months ago
New Orleans Saints defensive tackle Devon Godchaux hosted his 10th annual NFLPA youth camp for young athletes on Saturday, July 10, 2026, at his alma mater Plaquemine High School in Plaquemine, LA.
The annual free event provided childen ages 8 to 16 the opportunity to learn fundamental football techniques and participate in drills led by the former LSU and Plaquemine High standout. There were also giveaways and every participant also received lunch and t-shirt.
Godchaux was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. After four seasons in Miami and four with the New England Patriots, he was traded to the Saints in March 2025
The annual free event provided childen ages 8 to 16 the opportunity to learn fundamental football techniques and participate in drills led by the former LSU and Plaquemine High standout. There were also giveaways and every participant also received lunch and t-shirt.
Godchaux was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. After four seasons in Miami and four with the New England Patriots, he was traded to the Saints in March 2025
4 months ago
Those who know Dr. Myron Rolle aren't surprised by the trajectory of his life.
Or his latest endeavor.
The NFL Players ***** ociation announced Monday, July 6, that Rolle — one of the most accomplished student-athletes in Florida State history — has joined the union in strategic advisory roles focused on player health, brain cognition and preventive care throughout a player's life.
Rolle, who starred as a safety for the Seminoles from 2006-08 before earning a Rhodes Scholarship to study at Oxford University, is now a pediatric neurosurgeon and nationally recognized researcher.
The union said Rolle will lend his medical expertise to several NFLPA initiatives, including the Mackey-White Health and Safety Committee, helping shape efforts to protect players during and after their NFL careers.
Or his latest endeavor.
The NFL Players ***** ociation announced Monday, July 6, that Rolle — one of the most accomplished student-athletes in Florida State history — has joined the union in strategic advisory roles focused on player health, brain cognition and preventive care throughout a player's life.
Rolle, who starred as a safety for the Seminoles from 2006-08 before earning a Rhodes Scholarship to study at Oxford University, is now a pediatric neurosurgeon and nationally recognized researcher.
The union said Rolle will lend his medical expertise to several NFLPA initiatives, including the Mackey-White Health and Safety Committee, helping shape efforts to protect players during and after their NFL careers.
4 months ago
Former NFL safety Myron Rolle went to medical school after he completed his playing career and the pediatric neurosurgeon is now coming back to work with the NFL Players ******* ociation.
The NFLPA announced that Rolle will be joining the union as a strategic advisor. Rolle's work will focus on player health, brain cognition, and preventative care for active players.
“This sport gave my family joy, discipline, and community,” Rolle said in a statement. “To return now, as a physician, researcher and former player, and contribute to the wellbeing of the men who make this game what it is, feels deeply meaningful. I am honored to support the NFLPA’s mission and help advance a future where every player’s health is protected with the highest standard of care.”
Rolle was named a Rhodes Scholar while playing at Florida State and the ******* ans drafted him in the sixth round in 2010. He also spent time with the Steelers, but did not play in any regular season games before going back to Florida State for medical school in 2013.
The NFLPA announced that Rolle will be joining the union as a strategic advisor. Rolle's work will focus on player health, brain cognition, and preventative care for active players.
“This sport gave my family joy, discipline, and community,” Rolle said in a statement. “To return now, as a physician, researcher and former player, and contribute to the wellbeing of the men who make this game what it is, feels deeply meaningful. I am honored to support the NFLPA’s mission and help advance a future where every player’s health is protected with the highest standard of care.”
Rolle was named a Rhodes Scholar while playing at Florida State and the ******* ans drafted him in the sixth round in 2010. He also spent time with the Steelers, but did not play in any regular season games before going back to Florida State for medical school in 2013.
4 months ago
The 2027 NFL Draft is shaping up to be loaded at the quarterback position. It also already has at least one confirmed early-round entrant.
On Tuesday, June 30, the NFL sent a memo to teams that it had reached a settlement with the NFLPA and Brendan Sorsby that there would be "no further litigation regarding his entry into the NFL" while making the embattled quarterback eligible for the 2027 NFL Draft.
Sorsby's status had been in limbo after the NFL denied him entry into the 2026 supplemental draft – which will not be held – amid a gambling scandal surrounding the 22-year-old.
But Tuesday's resolution will guarantee Sorsby a chance to eventually state his case to play in the NFL. The major question is about how he will remain sharp without getting in-game reps at either the college or professional level in 2026.
Of course, the other question is about where Sorsby will fall in the pecking order among draft-eligible 2027 quarterback prospects. He has a tantalizing skill set, but there are plenty of other high-caliber prospects who could emerge as first-round selections, especially if they can enjoy quality 2026 seasons.
On Tuesday, June 30, the NFL sent a memo to teams that it had reached a settlement with the NFLPA and Brendan Sorsby that there would be "no further litigation regarding his entry into the NFL" while making the embattled quarterback eligible for the 2027 NFL Draft.
Sorsby's status had been in limbo after the NFL denied him entry into the 2026 supplemental draft – which will not be held – amid a gambling scandal surrounding the 22-year-old.
But Tuesday's resolution will guarantee Sorsby a chance to eventually state his case to play in the NFL. The major question is about how he will remain sharp without getting in-game reps at either the college or professional level in 2026.
Of course, the other question is about where Sorsby will fall in the pecking order among draft-eligible 2027 quarterback prospects. He has a tantalizing skill set, but there are plenty of other high-caliber prospects who could emerge as first-round selections, especially if they can enjoy quality 2026 seasons.
4 months ago
In recent days, 49ers receiver Brandon Aiyuk has been posting complaints about his current team and his now-former agent.
On Sunday, Aiyuk targeted the NFL Players ******* ociation.
In a post appearing on his Instagram story, Aiyuk said this: "When members of the union that is in place to help players is lying/withholding information from a player on behalf of the team alongside a certified agent.. That’s some straight BS!!! Some players have no other place to go for information or help, and are relying on the union to help them continue advancing in their careers and lives! I'm sure there are great members of the union, so this message does not pertain to them but about the ones in my specific case."
Aiyuk seems to be confusing union membership with union leadership. That said, he hasn't made a specific complaint regarding anything the union has done, or failed to do, as to his current situation.
When the 49ers voided Aiyuk's contractual guarantees, he reportedly decided not to fight it. If he had decided to do so, the NFLPA would have taken up the cause.
On Sunday, Aiyuk targeted the NFL Players ******* ociation.
In a post appearing on his Instagram story, Aiyuk said this: "When members of the union that is in place to help players is lying/withholding information from a player on behalf of the team alongside a certified agent.. That’s some straight BS!!! Some players have no other place to go for information or help, and are relying on the union to help them continue advancing in their careers and lives! I'm sure there are great members of the union, so this message does not pertain to them but about the ones in my specific case."
Aiyuk seems to be confusing union membership with union leadership. That said, he hasn't made a specific complaint regarding anything the union has done, or failed to do, as to his current situation.
When the 49ers voided Aiyuk's contractual guarantees, he reportedly decided not to fight it. If he had decided to do so, the NFLPA would have taken up the cause.
4 months ago
As several NFL stadiums have installed grass fields to comply with FIFA regulations for this summer's World Cup, the San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle criticized the NFL for continuing to ignore players' long-standing calls for safer playing surfaces. His outspoken comments even drew a response from Caleb Williams of the Chicago Bears.
Playing surfaces have become one of the biggest talking points around the NFL, as concerns over injuries on artificial turf continue to intensify.
15 of the league's 30 stadiums currently use artificial turf, while the other 15 feature either hybrid or natural grass fields. The debate has been intense as more players have questioned whether synthetic surfaces increase the risk of lower-body injuries.
The NFL has consistently maintained that injury rates are relatively comparable between artificial turf and grass, but the NFL Players ******* ociation has strongly pushed back on that stance. The union argues that natural grass provides a softer playing surface, reduces stress on players' bodies, and ultimately helps lower the likelihood of injuries over the course of a long season.
Meanwhile, among the most outspoken advocates for grass fields has been Kittle, who once again made his feelings crystal clear in a statement shared by the NFLPA on social media.
Playing surfaces have become one of the biggest talking points around the NFL, as concerns over injuries on artificial turf continue to intensify.
15 of the league's 30 stadiums currently use artificial turf, while the other 15 feature either hybrid or natural grass fields. The debate has been intense as more players have questioned whether synthetic surfaces increase the risk of lower-body injuries.
The NFL has consistently maintained that injury rates are relatively comparable between artificial turf and grass, but the NFL Players ******* ociation has strongly pushed back on that stance. The union argues that natural grass provides a softer playing surface, reduces stress on players' bodies, and ultimately helps lower the likelihood of injuries over the course of a long season.
Meanwhile, among the most outspoken advocates for grass fields has been Kittle, who once again made his feelings crystal clear in a statement shared by the NFLPA on social media.
4 months ago
The NFLPA has undergone its fair share of turmoil in recent years and as they're set to begin negotiations with the league over a potential 18-game schedule in the near future, the players' **** ociation needs to prepare itself for what could be the most consequential conversation the league has witnessed since the AFL-NFL merger.
An 18-game season would be a massive shift in the league's yearly schedule. The additional game would likely lead to the league increasing the amount of international games played per season, and this is a major topic, as the NFL and the NFLPA would have to make serious changes to their current collective bargaining agreement; it doesn't expire until March 2031.
Current NFLPA executive director JC Tretter is the first player to occupy the role since legendary guard and player advocate Gene Upshaw passed away in 2008. As Upshaw was a pillar for protecting players' rights, Tretter looks to do the same. Since taking over the role, he has stated that his job is to figure out what the players want, and to fight for those wishes.
In order to do so, Tretter visited with eight different organizations, including the Los Angeles Rams, according to Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer. The Rams are at the forefront of the NFL's plans to expand into the Pacific, hosting minicamp in Hawaii last season and they're set to kick off the season in Melbourne, Australia.
The other piece is information gathering, and that's underway in earnest. Tretter has already done visits with the Bills, Patriots, Ravens, Giants, Eagles, Commanders, Vikings and Rams, in conjunction with other parts of the job. He popped in with the Vikings, for example, when he was in Minnesota for the AFL-CIO national convention. He saw the Giants as part of a visit to see owner John Mara, who is the head of the NFL management council's executive committee. He visited the Eagles because they didn't have a voting rep at his election.
An 18-game season would be a massive shift in the league's yearly schedule. The additional game would likely lead to the league increasing the amount of international games played per season, and this is a major topic, as the NFL and the NFLPA would have to make serious changes to their current collective bargaining agreement; it doesn't expire until March 2031.
Current NFLPA executive director JC Tretter is the first player to occupy the role since legendary guard and player advocate Gene Upshaw passed away in 2008. As Upshaw was a pillar for protecting players' rights, Tretter looks to do the same. Since taking over the role, he has stated that his job is to figure out what the players want, and to fight for those wishes.
In order to do so, Tretter visited with eight different organizations, including the Los Angeles Rams, according to Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer. The Rams are at the forefront of the NFL's plans to expand into the Pacific, hosting minicamp in Hawaii last season and they're set to kick off the season in Melbourne, Australia.
The other piece is information gathering, and that's underway in earnest. Tretter has already done visits with the Bills, Patriots, Ravens, Giants, Eagles, Commanders, Vikings and Rams, in conjunction with other parts of the job. He popped in with the Vikings, for example, when he was in Minnesota for the AFL-CIO national convention. He saw the Giants as part of a visit to see owner John Mara, who is the head of the NFL management council's executive committee. He visited the Eagles because they didn't have a voting rep at his election.
5 months ago
NFL fans love to buy San Francisco 49ers gear.
The 49ers led all NFL franchises with five players featured on the newly released NFL Players ******* ociation (NFLPA) year-end top 50 player sales list, reflecting strong retail demand for the team’s biggest stars.
Running back Christian McCaffrey led the 49ers' group at No. 12, followed closely by quarterback Brock Purdy at No. 18. Tight end George Kittle ranked No. 23, linebacker Fred Warner placed No. 25, and defensive lineman Nick Bosa rounded out the team's appearances at No. 48.
Within their respective positions, the 49ers' selections feature prominently. Kittle finished as the league's top-selling tight end, while Bosa earned the No. 1 spot among defensive linemen. McCaffrey and Warner both ranked second at their positions—trailing only Saquon Barkley among running backs and Micah Parsons among linebackers, respectively. Purdy finished as the 10th highest-selling quarterback on the list.
This list of players makes sense, as it more or less reflects how big each one is both for the 49ers and in the NFL at large. McCaffrey is one of the league's top offensive stars, Purdy is a star quarterback, Kittle is recongized face and name, Warner is perhaps the best inside linebacker in the league and Bosa was a highly-drafted pick who is one of the best at his craft.
The 49ers led all NFL franchises with five players featured on the newly released NFL Players ******* ociation (NFLPA) year-end top 50 player sales list, reflecting strong retail demand for the team’s biggest stars.
Running back Christian McCaffrey led the 49ers' group at No. 12, followed closely by quarterback Brock Purdy at No. 18. Tight end George Kittle ranked No. 23, linebacker Fred Warner placed No. 25, and defensive lineman Nick Bosa rounded out the team's appearances at No. 48.
Within their respective positions, the 49ers' selections feature prominently. Kittle finished as the league's top-selling tight end, while Bosa earned the No. 1 spot among defensive linemen. McCaffrey and Warner both ranked second at their positions—trailing only Saquon Barkley among running backs and Micah Parsons among linebackers, respectively. Purdy finished as the 10th highest-selling quarterback on the list.
This list of players makes sense, as it more or less reflects how big each one is both for the 49ers and in the NFL at large. McCaffrey is one of the league's top offensive stars, Purdy is a star quarterback, Kittle is recongized face and name, Warner is perhaps the best inside linebacker in the league and Bosa was a highly-drafted pick who is one of the best at his craft.
5 months ago
Shedeur Sanders negotiated $9.24 million of $17.7m NFLPA royalty payment while with Colorado Buffs football originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Former Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders recently cashed in on a $17.7 million royalty check from the NFL Players **** ociation for his rookie season in the NFL with the Cleveland Browns.
As Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio relayed, a large portion of that payment was negotiated while he was still a member of the Buffs, and before he slipped from being a projected first-round pick to an eventual fifth-round draft slide in 2025. Mainly, on trading card NIL. In addition, Florio foresees another big payment after Sanders recently switched his jersey number to the No. 2 he wore in Boulder as he broke several CU records under center.
“Most player royalty through the NFLPA come from group licensing deals, which compensate players for jersey sales, trading cards, video games, and other collectibles. As one source suggested, the $9.24 million payment to Sanders in May 2025 may have reflected his individual trading-card guarantee — something that likely would have been negotiated before he slipped from round one to round five in the 2025 draft,” Florio wrote.
“Sanders could have a large payment in next year’s LM-2, too. In March, Sanders changed his number from 12 to 2; any jerseys that fueled his royalty payments for his first NFL season will need to be replaced.”
Former Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders recently cashed in on a $17.7 million royalty check from the NFL Players **** ociation for his rookie season in the NFL with the Cleveland Browns.
As Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio relayed, a large portion of that payment was negotiated while he was still a member of the Buffs, and before he slipped from being a projected first-round pick to an eventual fifth-round draft slide in 2025. Mainly, on trading card NIL. In addition, Florio foresees another big payment after Sanders recently switched his jersey number to the No. 2 he wore in Boulder as he broke several CU records under center.
“Most player royalty through the NFLPA come from group licensing deals, which compensate players for jersey sales, trading cards, video games, and other collectibles. As one source suggested, the $9.24 million payment to Sanders in May 2025 may have reflected his individual trading-card guarantee — something that likely would have been negotiated before he slipped from round one to round five in the 2025 draft,” Florio wrote.
“Sanders could have a large payment in next year’s LM-2, too. In March, Sanders changed his number from 12 to 2; any jerseys that fueled his royalty payments for his first NFL season will need to be replaced.”
8 months ago
NFL’s latest win over NFLPA might silence transparency around the league
The NFL secured a major win over the NFL Players **** ociation on Friday. A couple of months after the league filed a grievance, it won it.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on Friday that the league sent a memo to owners, announcing that they won the grievance, and the annual team report cards violated the CBA. The NFLPA won’t be able to make future report cards public.
MORE: President Donald Trump pardons 5 former NFL players
“We are pleased with the decision from the arbitrator, upholding the parties’ collective barg
The NFL secured a major win over the NFL Players **** ociation on Friday. A couple of months after the league filed a grievance, it won it.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on Friday that the league sent a memo to owners, announcing that they won the grievance, and the annual team report cards violated the CBA. The NFLPA won’t be able to make future report cards public.
MORE: President Donald Trump pardons 5 former NFL players
“We are pleased with the decision from the arbitrator, upholding the parties’ collective barg
9 months ago
NFL wins grievance against NFLPA report cards: How it impacts Steelers
The NFLPA report cards, which offered a glimpse at how players graded their teams on facilities, ownership, coaching staff, workplace conditions, and more, have received a controversial update, which might be a good thing for the Pittsburgh Steelers front office.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the NFL “informed all 32 teams today in a memo that it prevailed in its grievance vs. the NFLPA and its ‘team report cards.’”
He also added that an “arbitrator determined that the NFLPA's conduct violated the CBA and ordered
The NFLPA report cards, which offered a glimpse at how players graded their teams on facilities, ownership, coaching staff, workplace conditions, and more, have received a controversial update, which might be a good thing for the Pittsburgh Steelers front office.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the NFL “informed all 32 teams today in a memo that it prevailed in its grievance vs. the NFLPA and its ‘team report cards.’”
He also added that an “arbitrator determined that the NFLPA's conduct violated the CBA and ordered
