The NFL and NFLPA on Friday agreed to extend talks about a new CBA until the end of the day on March 11. The two sides will break for the weekend before returning to mediation on Monday morning. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell took a couple questions after exiting the mediator’s office, saying “We are continuing to work hard, trying to identify the solutions. … I think the fact we are continuing the dialogue is a positive sign” (NFL Network, 3/4). NFL Exec VP & General Counsel Jeff Pash: “We’re going to continue to work. We’re at a stage where the issues have been joined, there’s been a tremendous amount of discussion. It’s time for us really to dig deep and try to find solutions, and try to be creative, and try to compromise in a way that will work for everybody. … If both sides give a little, everybody can gain a lot” (“Outside the Lines,” ESPN, 3/4).
Federal mediator George Cohen briefly addressed the media Friday afternoon, noting the gag order he issued was the “best way to encourage parties to fully, frankly and candidly talk to each other.” Cohen: “I’m pleased to say that over the course of … 11 days we have at least achieved that level of dialogue and that level of constructive discussion.” Cohen did not take any questions from the assembled reporters (NFL Network, 3/4).
For continuing updates, see the SBJ/SBD NFL Labor Watch page.
