Running The Option

In a less-than-shocking move, NFL team owners today unanimously decide to opt out of the current CBA that was signed just two years ago. Owners have complained almost from the outset of the deal that it is too slanted in the players’ favor. While a November 8 deadline has long existed, today’s move gives both the league and the union as much time as possible to negotiate a new pact. The decision is also made in order to prevent any midseason distractions. While the prospect of a work stoppage is a distant possibility, the league will head into the 2010 season without a salary cap unless a new deal is struck. NFLPA Exec Dir Gene Upshaw says of the development, “As they say during the Draft, we’re on the clock.” Meanwhile, Indianapolis is the favorite to be named this afternoon host of Super Bowl XLVI in 2012.