Camps to open on time after NFL, players reach deal

After the NFL Players Association voted unanimously to approve the proposed
changes, the union's player reps gave their approval on a conference call.

"Our NFLPA Board of Representatives voted to adopt, by a count of 29-3, the
proposed amendments to the 2020 Collective Bargaining Agreement to protect our
players' health, safety and financial well-being," the board said in a press
release.

According to multiple reports, the key agreements included maintaining the
salary cap for 2020 at $198.2 million per team and setting the 2021 salary cap
at a minimum of $175 million. If the league's revenues are more than
anticipated, the cap floor could rise.

In addition, the agreement allows teams to spread losses stemming from the
coronavirus pandemic over four years starting in 2021, NFL Network reported.

ESPN said the teams also settled on an 80-man roster deadline of Aug. 16,
before players practice in pads. Teams could have up to 90 players in camp if
they split into two squads that train in separate facilities.

Other reported agreements include a $350,000 opt-out payment for players
considered at high risk for COVID-19. Players without risk can opt-out for
$150,000.

Also, players who make a team's final cut would get a $300,000 stipend if the
season is canceled and no games are played. If the season is called off before
the cut-down deadline, players who were on a team in 2019 would get $250,000,
per ESPN.

Tuesday is the reporting date for 30 teams.

The Houston Texans and Kansas City Chiefs are due to start camp on Sunday
because they will play earlier than other teams. They are scheduled to open
the season on Sept. 10 in Kansas City, while the rest of the teams begin play
on Sept. 13.

--Field Level Media