The 32 NFL owners met Tuesday in Atlanta for the spring meeting, and voted on a number of measures. One of the more controversial items on the NFL owners’ agenda was the vote to make knee and thigh pads mandatory for NFL players. The rule change was approved and is scheduled to go into effect for the 2013 season.
The proposal is controversial among NFL players, as some players don’t wear the protection because they believe that the bulky pads slow them down. This is particularly an issue for the speed positions such as defensive back and wide receiver.
Atlanta Falcons president Rich McKay, at the press conference announcing the results of the voting this morning, said, “Some of us felt we were remiss that we took it out of the rule book.” Then he added, “We have some work to do with the union.”
The NFL Players Association released the following statement on Tuesday afternoon, following the owners vote on Tuesday morning:
“Any change in working conditions is a collectively-bargained issue. While the NFL is focused on one element of health and safety today, the NFLPA believes that health and safety requires a comprehensive approach and commitment. We are engaged in and monitor many different issues, such as players’ access to medical records, prescription usage and the situation with professional football’s first responders, NFL referees. We always look forward to meeting with the NFL to discuss any and all matters related to player health and safety.”
The NFLPA essentially reiterated its position that the league cannot unilaterally impose this rule and that since it is covered by the CBA, is subject to a negotiation between the NFL and the NFLPA. The union could file a grievance on the basis that the change in padding requirements for players cannot be unilaterally imposed.
