Draft Week: Around The NFL
By author
Here are today’s top stories, begining with Judge Nelson’s ruling that temporarily lifts the NFL out of the lockout:
N.F.L. Ruling Is a Victory for Fans
By JOHN BRANCH
Judge Nelson issued her decision yesterday that lifted the NFL lockout, if only temporarily. The NFL will appeal. Nelson wrote in her 89 page decision:
"“The public ramifications of this dispute exceed the abstract principles of the antitrust laws, as professional football involves many layers of tangible economic impact, ranging from broadcast revenues down to concessions sales. And, of course, the public interest represented by the fans of professional football — who have a strong investment in the 2011 season — is an intangible interest that weighs against the lockout. In short, this particular employment dispute is far from a purely private argument over compensation.”"
More news after the jump.
Back to work? Maybe for some Giants
BY RALPH VACCHIANO
Shaun O’Hara speaks out about about Judge Nelson’s ruling to the NY Daily News via email:
"“As players, we are pleased with Judge Nelson’s ruling. Although she has issued an injunction, players have not received any information nor have we been contacted by anyone from our current clubs that would indicate their desire to have players commence working out at the team facility. We are aware that the league is filing an appeal on the decision. Players are encouraged to do what is most convenient for them with respect to attempting to train at a club facility.Most players are currently working out on their own and many are training in cities other than that of their current clubs location. Over the next couple days, I expect more information to be released with respect to the teams off-season program, should the teams allow us to begin training at the club facility.”"
Osi Umenyiora Reacts To Judge’s Ruling
Charles Cosello, Giants Football Blog
Umenyiora released the following statement after Judge Nelson’s decision:
"“Today’s ruling is a win for the players and for the fans that want to see a full NFL season in 2011. The lockout is bad for everyone and players will continue to fight it. We hope that this will bring us one step closer to playing the game we love.”"
Some NFL player agents to demand payment of bonuses Tuesday
Mike Garafolo, Star-Ledger
"The argument to be made by the agents will be Judge Susan Nelson’s lifting the lockout means the 2011 league year has begun. Thus, the agents believe any bonuses due on the “first day of the league year” should be paid – and if not, those contracts would be in default."
Another Mock Draft
Ohm Youngmisuk, ESPN NY
"[Florida G/C Mike] Pouncey and Boston College tackle Anthony Castonzo are two popular candidates for the Giants, who have Shaun O’Hara, Rich Seubert and Adam Koets all coming off surgeries. The Giants also eventually have to make a decision on Shawn Andrews’ $3.5 million contract bonus as well.But what if Pouncey and Castonzo –- two players the Giants have visited with during their respective pro days –- are gone by 19?"