According to a report, the NFLPA is looking to change up the offseason schedule in 2025
The NFLPA wants to change the structure of NFL offseasons for the foreseeable future.
According to a report from NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the league’s players association is finalizing a proposal to eliminate optional training activities (OTAs) in 2025. It is intended to be “a common-sense solution for reducing injuries and maximizing players’ recovery time.”
“The NFL Players Association is working to finalize a proposal to overhaul the offseason starting as soon as 2025, eliminating 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,” said Pelissero.
Additionally, he reported that a “majority” of players would support the change and that the whole proposal will be voted on later this summer.
End of OTAs? The NFL Players Association is working to finalize a proposal to overhaul the offseason starting as soon as 2025, eliminating 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, per… pic.twitter.com/nQa9TmKCGO
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) May 28, 2024
The changes would be interesting from multiple perspectives.
On one hand, it would likely be beneficial for the players. Without multiple report dates in the offseason, they would have one slow ramp-up from the summer to the start of the season. It would potentially improve health and recovery, as a slower-paced offseason would likely let players acclimate to the season more quickly.
Inversely, the new schedule would potentially negatively impact coaches and front offices. It would put a more significant emphasis on coaches to create programs that last almost a month longer than usual. Additionally, it could impact install periods for rookies and free-agent signings, possibly making their adjustment period take longer than normal.
A more condensed schedule for front offices could impact summer signings and trades. Teams may not have the same opportunity to find contributors, as every team will aim to make moves at the same time of the summer.
Ultimately, the revised schedule still has to be formally proposed and passed. If it is accepted and ratified, though, it will provide very interesting changes across the NFL landscape.
