The tenor of talks between the NFL, the players and related news reporting has definitely taken a turn for the better. Earlier the fact that parties were actually speaking was a reason to hope but now it appears that things are moving steadily forward. So to the outward observer, for the first time we have a right to be hopeful that the lockout might end and there will be a 2011 NFL season.
Adam Schefter of ESPN is reporting that league sent a memo to the teams Monday night, advising them to be prepared to stay overnight during next Tuesday’s NFL meetings in Chicago. While no details for requesting the extended stay have been released it is being viewed as a positive sign that talks are getting serious. The owners need to reach a consensus on their position and reports suggest they may possibly vote on a new CBA during the meeting. Many familiar with the negotiations have said getting a consensus among all the owners has been one of the more difficult challenges in the ongoing negotiations. However, with increased pressure from fans and corresponding economic losses the path to agreement might be easier for all to travel.
So, for now we can have reason to hope but as NFL spokesman Greg Aiello wrote on his Twitter account last week “It’s not over till it’s over.”
