NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell's Latest Report

Dear NFL Fan, When I wrote to you last on behalf of the NFL, we promised you that we would work tirelessly to find a collectively bargained solution to our differences with the players' union. Subsequent to that letter to you, we agreed that the fastest way to a fair agreement was for everyone to work together through a mediation process. For the last three weeks I have personally attended every session of mediation, which is a process our clubs sincerely believe in. Unfortunately, I have to tell you that earlier today the players' union walked away from mediation and collective bargaining and has initiated litigation against the clubs. In an effort to get a fair agreement now, our clubs offered a deal today that was, among other things, designed to have no adverse financial impact on veteran players in the early years, and would have met the players’ financial demands in the latter years of the agreement. The proposal we made included an offer to narrow the player compensation gap that existed in the negotiations by splitting the difference; guarantee a reallocation of savings from first-round rookies to veterans and retirees without negatively affecting compensation for rounds 2-7; no compensation reduction for veterans; implement new year-round health and safety rules; retain the current 16-4 season format for at least two years with any subsequent changes subject to the approval of the league and union; and establish a new legacy fund for retired players ($82 million contributed by the owners over the next two years). It was a deal that offered compromise, and would have ensured the well-being of our players and guaranteed the long-term future for the fans of the great game we all love so much. It was a deal where everyone would prosper. We remain committed to collective bargaining and the federal mediation process until an agreement is reached, and call on the union to return to negotiations immediately. NFL players, clubs, and fans want an agreement. The only place it can be reached is at the bargaining table. While we are disappointed with the union's actions, we remain steadfastly committed to reaching an agreement that serves the best interest of NFL players, clubs and fans, and thank you for your continued support of our League. First and foremost it is your passion for the game that drives us all, and we will not lose sight of this as we continue to work for a deal that works for everyone. Yours, Roger Goodell

Ok... What does this mean? Is Commissioner Goodell taking the side of management in this, and why did the NFL Players Association step away from the table?

At first blush, this sounds like a reasonable plan. As Commissioner Goodell writes:

The proposal we made included an offer to narrow the player compensation gap that existed in the negotiations by splitting the difference; guarantee a reallocation of savings from first-round rookies to veterans and retirees without negatively affecting compensation for rounds 2-7; no compensation reduction for veterans; implement new year-round health and safety rules; retain the current 16-4 season format for at least two years with any subsequent changes subject to the approval of the league and union; and establish a new legacy fund for retired players ($82 million contributed by the owners over the next two years). First off- we need to define what the new year round health and safety rules are going to be... Commissioner Goodell has proven to be good hearted in his attempts to reform the league. However, some of his rules have become quite stifling with some players and coaches saying that it takes away from the physical aspect of the game. I like the fact that a new legacy fund will be established for the retired players at the tune of $82 million dollars over the next two years... This will definitely help retired players take care of needs outside the NFL. I am very happy to hear that the Commissioner is seeking to retain the current 16-4 season format for the next two years without any subsequent changes subject to the approval of the league and the union. This is very important as it provides time to study and debate the 18 game question. I also like the fact that they have put on the table their willingness to guarantee a reallocation of savings from first round rookies to veterans and retirees without negatively affecting compensation for rounds 2-7. This will prevent rookies from having salaries higher than established veterans. I would like to know why the players see these points as worthy to walk away... Player and fan comments are welcomed .