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As the new executive director of the NFL Players Association, Lloyd Howell must prevent the NFL from implementing an 18-game season during his tenure.
When the league added a 17th game in 2021, Howell’s predecessor, De Smith, was against it. However, he allowed the players to vote on it, resulting in the narrow passage of a new CBA with a 17th game in every schedule.
To prevent an 18th game, the owners must agree to three stipulations:
- Non-kickers will play a maximum of 17 regular-season games per year.
- Every stadium with the ability to retrofit, as well as outdoor stadiums, must have natural grass fields, with exceptions for hybrid fields in certain cases.
- A joint NFL-NFLPA committee must approve all exceptions to the use of fully natural-grass fields.
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Howell must emphasize to players, during his visits to all 32 teams, that their short- and long-term health is at stake when considering an 18-game season. He needs to address the importance of protecting players’ well-being, given the risks and concerns associated with extended play.
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The recent injuries of key players such as Joe Burrow, Mark Andrews, and Jaelan Phillips highlight the significant health risks involved in playing in the NFL. Adding an 18th game increases the chances of players sustaining injuries, thus raising questions about the long-term impact on their lives and careers.
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Future Pro Football Hall of Famers drafted 88th, 89th, and 129th in the 1964 NFL Draft are detailed in the “Ten Things I Think” section, serving as an intriguing NFL quiz.
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Brock Purdy’s impressive throws and potential as a top-15 quarterback are highlighted, demonstrating his aspirations to surpass the performance of established quarterbacks like Derek Carr and Geno Smith.
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The Steelers may need to address concerns about Diontae Johnson’s performance and reliability, raising the question of whether his contribution is worth the potential issues he presents.
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Amidst intriguing possibilities, the Broncos emerge as a team with the potential to make significant waves in the NFL season’s final stretch. Conflicting outcomes, including a potential Wild Card victory, make the team a captivating and unpredictable force.
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Despite their strong start, the Lions have shown signs of regression, particularly with reduced defensive capabilities and turnovers. The team’s shift in performance and vulnerabilities suggest potential challenges in maintaining their early success.
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Recent defensive shortcomings and the impact of key players on the Lions’ performance reveal underlying concerns about their strategy and flaws in their roster. The need for reinforcements and adjustments becomes apparent for the team to maintain competitiveness throughout the season.
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The piece on a Jan. 6 defendant’s plea and the complexities of familial relationships in the context of the Capitol riot provides deep insight into the ongoing political and social climate in the United States.
Eli Saslow’s captivating storytelling around the father-son dynamic reflects the profound impact and divisiveness of current events, urging readers to confront complex realities within the country.
Beer and Book Segments
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Story of the Week: “A Jan. 6 defendant pleads his case to the son who turned him in,” by Eli Saslow of The New York Times.
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Beer Can of the Week: Stealing Signs Hazy Pale Ale, Saucy Brew Works (Cleveland).
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Beernerdness: Chuckanut Kolsch German Ale (Chuckanut Brewing, Burlington, Wash.) provides exceptional and award-winning flavor for beer enthusiasts.
The diverse and engaging content within this article closely aligns with the multifaceted interests and insights of NFL enthusiasts, reflecting intriguing narratives within the league and the broader cultural landscape.×
