Union disputes availability of franchise tag (1 Viewer)

[Skeletore Eh]

The NFL Players Association has sent a memo to all certified agents disputing the league's contention that the franchise tag will be available for use as normal over the next few weeks.

"The current CBA provides that 'each club shall be permitted to designate one of its players who would otherwise be an Unrestricted Free Agent [or RFA] as a Franchise Player each season during the term of this Agreement,'" said the memo. "The 2011 season is not a 'season during the term of this Agreement' so the NFL has no valid basis for claiming the right to franchise players in 2011." The NFLPA seems to have a legit complaint here, but the league is sure to have a rejoinder.

If they can't even agree on whether or not there can be a franchise tag, its not a good sign for next season. All along I have been telling myself that they will work something out because of all the money both sides would lose, but now I am starting to have my doubts. I know I'll be watching the game on Sunday like it might be my last

 

[D.J.]

I kind of think this isn't that bad of a sign. The league has appeared to have the upperhand in just about everything so far. The best we can hope for is that one side loses all hope and just starts to negotiate. The union losing this battle may be the final straw for them to start giving in before they lose all leverage.