After months of negotiations and debate, the NFL players have voted to approve and pass the new collective bargaining agreement.
The new CBA passed by a vote tally of 1,019 to 959. With just 60 votes separating the two sides, the agreement passed by the narrowest of margins.
Our statement on the CBA vote: pic.twitter.com/3pXydLLQ9c
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) March 15, 2020
The ratification process highlighted just how far apart the factions of players were on the deal, with many prominent players, such as Aaron Rodgers, J.J. Watt and Maurkice Pouncey, speaking out against it.
NFLPA Executive Director DeMaurice Smith shared his thoughts on Twitter following the process, explaining that while the deal may not have pleased everyone, they were able to accomplish many of the goals they set out to.
An open letter. pic.twitter.com/lBNmQ6ZMo7
— DeMaurice Smith (@demauricesmith) March 15, 2020
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell also weighed in on the passing of the new deal, saying the league is “pleased that the players have voted to ratify the proposed new CBA.”
Here’s some good news. Agreement extends through 2030 season. pic.twitter.com/2jrkTKvTAf
— Brian McCarthy (@NFLprguy) March 15, 2020
Features of the new CBA include a path towards a 17-game season, a shortened preseason, a guaranteed 48% revenue split for the players, released marijuana testing and expanded rosters, among many others.
While the deal was passed on schedule after the NFLPA extended the voting deadline, it is unclear whether free agency and the remainder of the off-season will continue on time as planned.
The new CBA will run through the 2030 season.