NFLPA Set To Propose Changes To Offseason Workouts

For many players it’s the least favorite part of the job and something they would prefer to ignore. But it does serve a purpose and has some benefits for the players. Therefore, the NFLPA is set to propose some changes to the offseason workouts. The NFLPA would like for the offseason workout program changes to go into effect as soon as 2025. This change has been spearheaded by Lloyd Howell, who replaced DeMaurice Smith as the new NFLPA Executive Director in 2023.

According to NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero, the NFLPA wants to eliminate voluntary on-field work in the spring in favor of a longer training camp ramp-up, with players reporting in mid-June to early July. Currently there are three phases to the offseason program per the Collective Bargaining Agreement:

Phase One – Consists of the first two weeks of the Club’s offseason workout program. Activities are limited to strength and conditioning and physical rehabilitation only.

Phase Two – Consists of the next three weeks of the Club’s offseason workout program. During Phase Two all coaches shall be allowed on the field. On-field workouts may include (1) individual or group instruction and drills during (2) “perfect play” drills (e.g., offense or defense only, but not offense vs. defense), or special teams drills on a “separates” basis; (3) drills and plays conducted with offensive players lining up across from offensive players and defensive players lining up across from defensive players.

Phase 3 – Consists of the next four weeks of the Club’s offseason workout program. Each Club may conduct a total of ten days of organized team practice activity (OTAs). And one mandatory mini-camp for veterans can be conducted.

NFLPA Set To Propose Changes To Offseason Workouts

Offseason workout programs cannot begin prior to the first Monday in April for Clubs that have hired a new head coach. They cannot begin prior to the third Monday in April for all other Clubs.

Since offseason workout programs are collectively bargained the NFL will have to agree to the proposal by the NFLPA. Per Pelissero, “the NFLPA has consulted medical and performance experts to create a solution for reducing injuries and maximizing players’ recovery time. Under the potential proposal, virtual classroom work would still be permitted in the spring, but no practices until camp. A longer ramp-up period before the start of the season could prove helpful to avoid soft-tissue injuries. They tend to plague some players during training camps under the current structure.”

This seems like a good idea since it’s always about player safety in the NFL.

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