The National Football League and its players are contractually obligated to each other – and a peaceful relationship – from now until 2030.
After much back-and-forth, the sides have reached a deal that has some players still voicing their displeasure. Nonetheless, a deal is done and in place.
Our statement on the CBA vote: pic.twitter.com/3pXydLLQ9c
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) March 15, 2020
Of the major changes are: following a 16-game 2020 season, the owners will have the option to add a 17th game starting in 2021 (and thus the preseason will be shortened); two active roster spots will be added, bringing the total to 55, and teams may carry up to 14 players on their practice squad (up from 10); seven teams will make the playoffs in each conference, and; big alterations to the league’s drug policy.
There are no longer mandatory suspensions for positive drug tests. A positive test can lead a fine of up to three weeks’ worth of pay, but players will only be suspended if it is deemed they do not follow up on additional testing and seek clinical help after a fourth failed test. The threshold for which a test is deemed positive has also increased.
As part of the new approved CBA, the NFL will no longer suspend players for positive marijuana tests ? @brgridiron pic.twitter.com/lIkETTTtmH
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) March 15, 2020
The players will also get 48 percent of all league revenue, a number that is up from the 47 percent they received in the 2020 CBA. If owners do decide to exercise their option to play the 17th game, the players’ revenue pool goes up to 48.5 percent of revenue.
