NFL Triumphs in Collusion Grievance Appeal (with an Asterisk)

A three-person arbitration panel recently ruled on the NFL Players Association’s appeal concerning a collusion grievance. This decision, made in January 2025, upheld a previous arbitrator’s finding while acknowledging that the NFL had encouraged teams to resist fully guaranteed contracts for veteran players.

NFL’s Collusion Grievance Appeal Ruling

The ruling, obtained by Filmogaz.com, specifically criticized the NFL for its efforts to foster joint action among its franchises. The panel’s statement emphasized that such behavior was inappropriate.

Key Findings of the Appeal

• The NFLPA demonstrated, with a clear preponderance of evidence, that clubs were aware of the collusion invitation.
• The panel noted that “sophisticated businesspeople” should have recognized they were encouraged to limit guaranteed contracts.
• Despite these findings, the panel concluded there was insufficient evidence to prove that any clubs accepted the invitation to collude.

This conclusion mirrored that of the previous arbitrator, which is why no financial damages were awarded. Nonetheless, the appeal highlighted the NFL’s questionable practices regarding contract negotiations.

Future Implications for the NFLPA

With the appeal now resolved, attention turns to how the NFL Players Association will respond to the favorable language within the ruling. Under the guidance of new executive director JC Tretter, the union has the opportunity to leverage these findings.

The timing is also notable. The Department of Justice has initiated an antitrust investigation into the NFL, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.

Moving forward, the NFLPA may seek to address these collusion findings in negotiations, potentially reshaping the landscape for player contracts in the league.