NFL, NFLPA Not Yet Engaged In Bargaining Over Expanded Playoffs

The NFL yesterday touted an expanded playoff field in '20 as a done deal, but while it "had informed the union that the contingency plan would be considered" if meaningful regular-season games are lost to COVID-19, the league "had not yet approached the NFLPA to engage in formal bargaining," according to a source cited by Mike Florio of PRO FOOTBALL TALK. The union "remains open to creative ideas for getting through the season." However, expansion of the playoffs "constitutes a mandatory subject of bargaining." The league, in the union's view, "cannot unilaterally impose this change in working conditions." The union also "will have the right to seek a concession." For example, the union "could ask for players who otherwise weren't paid for any lost regular-season games to get their checks as part of the agreement to allow two extra teams into the postseason field" (NBCSPORTS.com, 11/11).