The NFL is definitely doing all they can to keep this story UTR.
This is why networks want blowhards like SAS and ex-athletes like Perk all over the coverage. That way, the focus stays 100% on the players and the left hand has no idea what the right hand is up to.
Now y'all wanna know WHY the NFLPA is weak?
It's easy.
The majority of players are just barely hanging on. One wrong step and they're selling insurance or working at the local dealership. They want to maximize their earnings in the short window they've got...maybe 3 to 6 years tops. Those guys have no stomach to hold out...giving up a whole season could be anywhere from 1/3 to 1/5 of their short careers.
Owners know those guys will go along with anything as long as you throw in a little sweetener.
The minority of players making $$$$$ (basically any above average starting QB, good or better defensive players etc), can take a long-term view. Owners don't worry about those guys because the NFLPA votes are done based on a simple majority. As long as you can get the middle/lower-tier guys to agree, that's all you need.
John Doe the QB with $100M liquid net worth is going to have a very different outlook than Dave Doe who makes league minimum and just wants to keep his spot on the 53. Owners target Dave and give him JUST enough to bend the knee.
if we let yall tell it.
.