The clock is ticking. If the NFL is going to get the preseason started on time, the owners and players need to get going on a new CBA and get the Lockout lifted. For that to happen, there are some major loose ends to resolve. In an effort to get those tied up, the NFL and NFLPA are trying to reach a 'Global Agreement' to resolve all pending issues.
The biggest - a resolution of the Brady Vs. NFL antitrust lawsuit, the TV Lockout Insurance case as well as a lawsuit by retired players - would all be part of the accord, something that NEEDS to happen if a new CBA is to be reached. The NFLPA woould need to re-certify as a Union in order to represent the players and ratify a deal. For that to happen, the pending litigation above would need to be settled.
If there is a breakdown at this point,it could be a bad sign for the preseason, and if any games are lost it would take a big bite out of the NFL's revenue stream.
Staying positive, however, the NFL sent a letter to all 32 teams advising them that all key executives should attend Thursday's owners meetings in Atlanta. That indicates the League is expecting to ratify a new CBA, a day after the NFLPA could ratify a deal at their Executive Board meeting in Washington D.C.
Stay Tuned!