The NFL is trying to figure out a way to prepare for the worst. The COVID-19 pandemic isn't slowing down and could threaten the 2020 NFL season, which would impact revenue across the league and future salary caps.
It's that uncertainty that has likely stalled a new contract for San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle. It also prompted the NFL to propose temporarily withholding 35 percent of player salaries to help manage the potential losses from the upcoming season, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.
The NFLPA informed its board of representatives today that the NFL proposed 35% of player salaries be held in escrow to help manage costs during the 2020 season, per sources.
It's one option on the table if revenue is impacted leaguewide by COVID-19.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) July 7, 2020
How did the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) respond?
"Basically, we told them to kick rocks," NFLPA executive Don Davis told players on a conference call.
How did the NFLPA react to the NFL's proposal to escrow 35% of player salaries this season?
NFLPA executive Don Davis told players on a conference call: "Basically, we told them to kick rocks."
Union's stance is any escrow deal must be collectively bargained. https://t.co/b3c7ihAOiD
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) July 7, 2020
49ers wide receiver Kendrick Bourne made it clear that he isn't a fan of the idea. Cornerback Richard Sherman also retweeted the same post.
— Kendrick Bourne Poly (@BournePoly11) July 8, 2020
This isn't the only aspect of the upcoming season over which the NFL and NFLPA remain at odds. In an effort to lower the risk of contracting the virus, and having it quickly spread throughout the league, the NFL wants to cut the schedule of preseason games in half, eliminating Weeks 1 and 4.
The NFLPA, however, sees exhibition games as unnecessary given the current circumstances and would like to see the entire preseason schedule for 2020 eliminated.
Then you have differing opinions on testing protocols. And training camps are scheduled to begin later this month. All of this is making navigating these uncertain times difficult for the NFL.
Just look at what's happening with the San Francisco Giants. The baseball club canceled Tuesday's workouts because of a delay in receiving the results for the COVID-19 testing administered on Saturday. The situation may not seem like too big of a deal, but it is just one small example of complications that can arise as sports leagues attempt to begin their seasons.
Several athletes throughout Major League Baseball and the NBA are opting to sit out their respective upcoming seasons to protect themselves and their families.
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