The NFL proposed a two-week shift to the offseason calender, but changes aren’t expected to occur as the NFL Players’ Association is unlikely to approve the proposal. A delayed start to free agency was reported to be the biggest sticking point, but an expanded regular season schedule could have also been a factor.
NFL’s proposed offseason changes unlikely
The NFL proposed a later start to a few notable offseason events, but the changes are unlikely to be approved by the NFLPA.
Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports
The NFLPA is opposed to the NFL’s proposal because it would mean a delayed start to free agency, according to Mark Maske of the Washington Post. The proposed changes would have delayed the NFL Scouting Combine, the NFL Draft and the opening of the free-agent period. According to Maske’s report, union officials oppose a delayed start to free agency because players don’t want to wait to secure where they will play next season. Under the current collective bargaining agreement, the changes would have to be approved by both the NFLPA and the owners.
While rejecting the proposal will keep the current schedule in tact, it could also hinder any plans to expand the NFL regular season to 18 games. By pushing the offseason calendar back two weeks, the NFL would have created space on the schedule to move the Super Bowl and playoffs back following an expanded regular season.
Changes could still come down the road, but for now, the NFL offseason calender will remain the same.
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