NFL Players Association Executive Director DeMaurice Smith is warning of a potential work stoppage.
According to the SportsBusiness Journal’s Liz Mullen, Smith has reportedly sent an email to every NFL agent stating that the union is “advising players to plan for a work stoppage of at least a year in length” when the collective bargaining agreement ends after the 2020 season.
There has been widespread speculation that a lockout could be likely prior to the 2021 season.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, teams were using language in new coaches’ contracts to protect themselves in the event of a work stoppage during the 2021 season.
The NFLPA responded to that story on their official Twitter page:
These contract provisions were also seen in the lead up to the 2011 lockout ?. Take note. https://t.co/iiBry4MRey
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) January 13, 2019
According to ESPN’s Dan Graziano, the NFLPA is pushing for an increased share of league revenue from the current 47 percent rate, obtaining greater guarantees in contracts and decreasing free-agent limitations, such as the franchise tag, and fifth-year rookie options.
The NFLPA and the league has started negotiation for a new CBA but there are currently no indications that a deal is on the horizon.