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Details continue to emerge from the NFL and the NFLPA, as the two sides attempt to solidify plans in the lead up to the 2020 season. The NFLPA held a call with players on Tuesday, providing updates on agreements and negotiations between the league and its players.
Of all the details to come out of the call, the most noteworthy was the confirmation that there will be no preseason games this year. Though that had long been pushed for from the players’ side and reportedly given from the league’s side earlier this week, it appears to be all but confirmed now.
Another previously expected development confirmed was the news that the NFLPA expects roster sizes to be cut down from 90 to 80 players before teams report. While the fewer players around the team the better this year, the league-wide cuts before camp even begins will be a devastating development for numerous UDFAs and long shots.
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero had the full details of the NFLPA call:
Updates from NFLPA call with players tonight:
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) July 21, 2020
- 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
According to Pelissero, the idea of a “general agreement” means the league and the players association have agreed on the concept, with details still to be finalized.
Interestingly, there were discussions surrounding how the cut from 90 to 80 would be done and if there was a way to keep the 10 players cut involved. However, it appears it will be normal releases.
The NFL Management Council Executive Committee has not yet signed off on the 80-man roster, per source. There was discussion on giving teams option of keeping 90 and dividing the roster -- i.e. keep 10 on standby -- but union told players it wanted all teams to follow one rule. https://t.co/3kXYqVTiUH
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) July 21, 2020
Expanded practice squad sizes, another development that has been discussed, could help to open the door a little for the bottom of the roster players otherwise hurt by this change.
While doubt remains hanging over the NFL’s efforts to begin its season amid a pandemic, the league and its players continue to work towards returning to facilities.