NFL Returns

The NFL Players Association came to terms with the NFL and owners today to end the lockout.  NFLPA team representatives unanimously voted to approve the deal, which was tweaked over the weekend following the owners approval last week. 

In a press conference today, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell made the announcement, “It’s been a long time coming. Football is back and that’s the great news for everybody. I want to thank De (DeMaurice Smith) and all of the players for their leadership and for securing the long term future of the game.  Having a 10-year agreement is extraordinarily great for our game but most importantly our fans. Everybody worked hard, everybody had a passion and everybody believes in this game of football and what we can do to make our game better.  And I think this agreement is going to make our game better. We’re grateful for all the work that both parties did to make sure that we came to this day today and to make sure for the fans that we can stand here and say “Football’s Back.”

The NFL will publish the 2011 Free Agency List today, which will be effective starting July 29.   Players may report to team facilities beginning tomorrow.  Also tomorrow, teams may sign their own drafted and undrafted rookies, and may begin negotiating, but not signing, free agents and other players.

The Dallas Cowboys will open training camp in San Antonio Wednesday.  The opening press conference is scheduled for 3:00pm in the Alamodome.  First practice is Thursday. 

Beginning Friday, teams may sign all eligible players.