NFLPA Says League Must Get Back to Football

[Omaha Steve]

Source: AP

By DAVE CAMPBELL

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - Draft day arrived Thursday with an escalating court fight between the NFL and its players, who were being pushed to go back to work even without clear rules on how the $9 billion business is being governed.

The NFL took its fight over the now-lifted lockout to a federal appeals court. With that pending, the teams still wouldn't let players lift weights as they waited for promised guidance from the league.

Attorneys for the players said it was no time to wait. They sent a memo telling players that the decision lifting the lockout "is in full, immediate force." Attorneys Jeffrey Kessler and James Quinn wrote that the league year "now has to begin," that players must be allowed to lift weights at team facilities, meet with coaches "and otherwise perform their jobs."

"It is our view that the NFL and the clubs will be in contempt of court if they do not comply with the order," the memo said.


Read more: http://sports.excite.com/news/04282011/v8249.html

[VWolf]

1. I've been saying the same thing for 25 years n/t

[LynneSin]

2. If there is no football this is going to have a major impact on the economy for cities with teams

An NFL is a finanicial boon not just for owners and players but for the businesses that surround the NFL stadium too. Many small businesses, especially food shops, benefit from home games with plenty of sales for tailgaters. And don't forget there's alot of taxes on merchandise and food/booze on everything sold at the stadium and nearby businesses.

The Unions and Owners need to figure this out or alot of cities will be hurting if there are no game

[Frisbee]

3. It will be really interesting tonight...

If any teams try to make deals involving not just picks, but players! I'd LOVE to see what happens if Goodell has to walk to the podium and announce that!

[lark]

4. I'll be watching, waiting for the fireworks

me and my tub of popcorn are primed for tonight.