Process for Approving Deal by Players Remains Fluid

WASHINGTON—As the NFL Players Association’s Executive Committee meets here Monday, discussions continue on a potential deal—but nothing is certain yet.

A conference call with Player Board of Directors from each of the 32 NFL teams began at 11 a.m. Monday. A vote is expected after the call.

“Once we vote to approve, the discussion of collectively-bargained issues can begin,” said Saints quarterback Drew Brees, a member of the NFLPA’s Executive Committee. “The health and safety issues of both current and former players are just as important as all the other issues.”

Colts center Jeff Saturday, also a member of the Executive Committee, said the player’s leadership group is not adhering to anyone’s “timeline,” adding that they are instead focused on completing the work necessary to secure a fair deal for players past, present and future.

“Being in a position to now discuss important collectively-bargained issues in our timeframe is just as important as the terms of the deal,” Saturday said.

NFLPA president Kevin Mawae, an All-Pro center during his playing career, was clear about the importance of player health and safety.

“Players started this process two years ago with an emphasis on health and safety, and we will end the process talking about health and safety when we ratify,” Mawae said.

Media reports of deadlines, timetables and possible votes by the player group are simply speculation, players at NFLPA headquarters said.

“We don’t feel that we are in a rush,” Mawae said. “Our goal is to get it right.”