Jerry and Other Big Wigs Secretly Meet Near Chi-town...NFLPA* reps attended too

[Hostile]

Several influential NFL owners meet secretly near Chicago

6/1/2011 8:26:21 PM

A small group of owners gathered in a western suburb of Chicago a week after the owners meetings in Indianapolis according to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune (http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/ct-spt-0602-nfl-owners--20110601,0,2077536.story).

Patriots owner Robert Kraft was spotted Wednesday afternoon boarding his private jet at DuPage Airport, a little less than 24 hours after arriving, according to sources. Also present during a full-day stakeout was the jet belonging to Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, an unmistakable Gulfstream model with a star on each side of the tail.

Sources said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell also arrived in West Chicago via private jet Tuesday, and Panthers owner Jerry Richardson was believed to be present, the sources said. The NFL office was unable to provide any details. Airport officials cited a confidentiality policy in declining to reveal information.

Where the men most involved in the owners' end of strategy convened is unknown but surely the NFL's protracted labor situation was the reason for their gathering. Was a secret meeting conducted with NFLPA officials? Kraft was not available for questions as the SUV he was in delivered him to the stairwell of his aircraft.

For some reason, these men chose a small airport they almost got in and out of without being spotted for a meeting in the suburbs.

[jobberone]

Very interesting. Would have loved to be a fly on the wall there.

[AMERICAS_FAN]

Patriots owner Robert Kraft was spotted Wednesday afternoon boarding his private jet at DuPage Airport, a little less than 24 hours after arriving, according to sources. Also present during a full-day stakeout was the jet belonging to Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, an unmistakable Gulfstream model with a star on each side of the tail.

Doesn't everyone do this with their friends?

Us: Hey guys whatcha doing this weekend?

Our friends: I danno, wanna hang out?

Us: Sure, I can fly everyone.

Our friends: No that's okay we can fly too.

Us: No prob guys, let's all meet at that little airport in the burbs; they got that nice cafe bar with that hot waitress - we can just hang out and catch up.

Our frinds: Cool deal, hey we can each fly our jets in and talk about our rides.

Us: Dudes! :cool:

[Hostile]

Very interesting. Would have loved to be a fly on the wall there.The question is, was it strategy, or deal?

[AMERICAS_FAN]

The question is, was it strategy, or deal?

Likely strategy, since it happend the last weekend before June 3rd when the court speaks its mind.

[RS12]

Likely a strategy session, my guess is the owners are confident the lockout continues, make an offer if that comes to pass, that may be appealing to the rank and file, and is made very public, so that it put the NFLPA in an awkward position.

[bbgun]

according to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune.

Secrecy fail.

[ShiningStar]

im sorry if Jerry is using the plane that screams Dallas Cowboys, how secret was this meeting in a public place?

[WoodysGirl]

Making sense of the not-so-secret ownership meeting (http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/06/01/making-sense-of-the-not-so-secret-ownership-meeting/)
Posted by Mike Florio on June 1, 2011, 11:30 PM EDT

For starters, the various owners who reportedly attended (http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/06/01/nfl-owners-hold-secret-meeting-in-chicago-wednesday/) — Pats owner Robert Kraft, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, and Panthers owner Jerry Richardson — are members of the team negotiating a new labor deal. So (and excuse us while we venture far onto a limb here) the meeting most likely was related to the ongoing labor dispute.

The next lockout-related development comes on Friday, when the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit takes up arguments regarding whether the lockout will be lifted. But there’s nothing for the owners to do at this point; it’s a matter that’s currently in the hands of the lawyers.

Given that the full ownership met last week in Indianapolis and in light of the requirement that at least 24 of them must approve any offers made to the players, it could be that the owners voted in Indy to give Goodell and the negotiating team a new ceiling of authority, and that the negotiating team met separately to come up with a plan for using it once mediation resumes in six days.

Read more: http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/06/01/making-sense-of-the-not-so-secret-ownership-meeting/

[Joe Realist]

they were hitting the strip and steak clubs

[MarionBarberThe4th]

Drawing up secret plays

[Seven]

Drawing up secret plays


:laugh2:

[Hostile]

im sorry if Jerry is using the plane that screams Dallas Cowboys, how secret was this meeting in a public place?It was a small Chicago suburb and small airport. I don't think they want total anonymity, just some privacy. It appears they achieved that.

[ShiningStar]

It was a small Chicago suburb and small airport. I don't think they want total anonymity, just some privacy. It appears they achieved that.

spies should operate that way. probably more effective, i see what your saying, but if the Dallas or Pats plane goes anywhere, someone is tweeting something.

i dont know if htis country understands privacy anymore.

[Hostile]

spies should operate that way. probably more effective, i see what your saying, but if the Dallas or Pats plane goes anywhere, someone is tweeting something.

i dont know if htis country understands privacy anymore.Yeah but there was no huge onslaught of reporters sticking microphones and cameras in their faces, just a report. Roughly the same as a UFO sighting with no evidence. Just a witness.

[ShiningStar]

Yeah but there was no huge onslaught of reporters sticking microphones and cameras in their faces, just a report. Roughly the same as a UFO sighting with no evidence. Just a witness.

now i get a clearer picture, thank ya.

[Hostile]

now i get a clearer picture, thank ya.Let's just hope something that benefits us happened. I don't even care what it is.

[ShiningStar]

Let's just hope something that benefits us happened. I don't even care what it is.

i do too and i hope they want to keep it small to keep it simple and not clogged up.

For example i might be on your side, but me and six other people might be clogging up the deal because we're to emotional or argue quick, so 3 people can clear up the mess and proceed where 9 total cant.


I just hope like you do something comes of it.

[the kid 05]

wonder what burb...my old town has a air strip, would love to meet Mr Jones

[jobberone]

The question is, was it strategy, or deal?

Probably mostly deal as I would think the strategy for the owners is pretty laid out right now. I do see some owners as being more likely to listen to the other side and I'm as sure as is possible that Jerry is one of them. Jerry gets a lot of love from the other owners. He has increased their coffers considerably since he's come into this league.

[irishline]

According to a new article on BSPN, D. Smith and other player association officials were there as well. So it looks like it may have been negotiations.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=6618259

[romomania]

@AdamShefter Filed to ESPN with @mortreport: NFL and NFLPA, including Roger Goodell and De Smith, met face-to-face in Chicago. More on Sportscenter.

@mortreport Filed to ESPN: We (@AdamSchefter and I) are reporting NFLPA's De Smith joined Roger Goodell and owners in Chicago for talks Wednesday.

[Outlaw Heroes]

According to a new article on BSPN, D. Smith and other player association officials were there as well (not sure how much validity there is to that after reading it though). So it looks like it may have been negotiations.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=6618259

This is good news. More face-to-face meetings are exactly what they need.

[peplaw06]

According to a new article on BSPN, D. Smith and other player association officials were there as well (not sure how much validity there is to that after reading it though). So it looks like it may have been negotiations.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=6618259Impossible... De Smith is only interested in litigation. At least that's what my sources have told me.

[Outlaw Heroes]

Joe's sources > pep's sources.

[jobberone]

It wouldn't surprise me at all for Jerry to want to meet with the other side and sit down. Neither side wants to see blood flow in this matter although I think a little will have to be let before they cave in.

[peplaw06]

Joe's sources > pep's sources.So true.

[Doomsday101]

They went there to hire Leroy Brown to get this trouble under control. :laugh2:

[Doomsay]

It was a small Chicago suburb and small airport. I don't think they want total anonymity, just some privacy. It appears they achieved that.

Yes - DPA is the Teterboro of the Midwest since Meigs field went down last decade - A centrally located executive airport, with a fair amount of inherent isolation from the public (Homeland Security). A comfortable little 1:40 minute trip for Jerry in the G5.

[SkinsFan28]

If the owner composition is right, I like that group, JR is definitely Low revenue guy and JJ obviously high, do the patriots fall in the mid range of revenue?

As for DSmith, if this is giving everyone a chance to tone down the rhetoric, and seek solutions, that is great. Even if DSmith is a litigator at heart, he had to hear what the Stay ruling was saying, and he may be getting some push back from the players at this point.

All in all, this has to be seen as a good sign.

[burmafrd]

I hate to throw cold water on hopes, but a meeting does not necessarily mean anything unless both sides want to deal.

[cowboyjoe]

Reports: De Smith attended not-so-secret meeting with owners

Posted by Mike Florio on June 2, 2011, 9:13 AM EDT
http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/06/02/reports-de-smith-attended-not-so-secret-meeting-with-owners/
AP
Initial reports of the clandestine Chicago-area meeting involving multiple owners and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell omitted reference to one key attendee.

Per multiple reports (including one from Adam Schefter and Chris Mortensen of ESPN and one from Albert Breer of NFL Network), NFLPA* executive director DeMaurice Smith was present, too. Other NFLPA* officials also were there.

[zrinkill]

:pray:

[Hostile]

Well, color me encouraged. I know they get back to the negotiations on June 7th. Maybe we've made headway.

[jterrell]

First non-court mandated meeting in forever certainly can't be a bad thing.

Both sides face very real pressure right now.
NFLPA fears the Friday court ruling and the NFL fears lost pre-season games which amount to free revenue for them. Hopefully the heat is high enough on both sides to see concessions that lead to a deal.

[cowboyjoe]

:pray: :pray:

Ditto:

I just saw this, been putting on stickers and running errands;

AlbertBreerAlbert Breer

Per twitter
Also can add that a number of players accompanied DeMaurice Smith to the secret meeting in Chicago with the commish, owners.

14 minutes agoFavoriteRetweetReply

[WoodysGirl]

Reports: De Smith attended not-so-secret meeting with owners (http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/06/02/reports-de-smith-attended-not-so-secret-meeting-with-owners/)

Posted by Mike Florio on June 2, 2011, 9:13 AM EDT

Initial reports of the clandestine Chicago-area meeting involving multiple owners and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell omitted reference to one key attendee.

Per multiple reports (including one from Adam Schefter and Chris Mortensen of ESPN and one from Albert Breer of NFL Network), NFLPA* executive director DeMaurice Smith was present, too. Other NFLPA* officials also were there.

Read the rest: http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/06/02/reports-de-smith-attended-not-so-secret-meeting-with-owners/

[ThreeSportStar80]

I think it's a good sign, at least they're meeting without a judge ordering them to do so....

[Doomsday101]

Don't clear them for take off until a deal is done.

[Sam I Am]

The question is, was it strategy, or deal?

I heard they were hiring this guy.

http://www.roopevintage.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/up-leon_the_professional.jpg

[cowboyjoe]

I know Hos hates these twitters but here are some more people at those secret meetings

AdamSchefterAdam Schefter
NFLPA reps at secret Chicago meeting: De Smith, Kevin Mawae, Mike Vrabel, Jeff Saturday and more. But other than Smith, NO lawyers.

9 minutes agoFavoriteRetweetReply


AdamSchefterAdam Schefter

NFL reps at secret Chicago meeting: Roger Goodell, Jerry Jones, Jerry Richardson, Robert Kraft, John Mara, Art Rooney.

[Doomsday101]

I know Hos hates these twitters but here are some more people at those secret meetings

AdamSchefterAdam Schefter
NFLPA reps at secret Chicago meeting: De Smith, Kevin Mawae, Mike Vrabel, Jeff Saturday and more. But other than Smith, NO lawyers.

9 minutes agoFavoriteRetweetReply


AdamSchefterAdam Schefter

NFL reps at secret Chicago meeting: Roger Goodell, Jerry Jones, Jerry Richardson, Robert Kraft, John Mara, Art Rooney.

Those are the main people who need to be there to get a deal done.

[Gaede]

Oh man, I don't want to get my hopes up but this could be really great news.

[cowboyjoe]

Exclusive owners group attempts secret meeting


08:05 AM ET 06.02 | With so many important dates coming on the NFL litigation schedule, a small group of owners reportedly met in a western suburb of Chicago. Patriots owner Robert Kraft was spotted Wednesday afternoon boarding his private jet at DuPage Airport, a little less than 24 hours after arriving, according to sources. Also present during a full-day stakeout was the jet belonging to Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, an unmistakable Gulfstream model with a star on each side of the tail. The kicker? Sources said NFL commissioner Roger Goodell also arrived in West Chicago via private jet Tuesday, and Panthers owner Jerry Richardson was believed to be present, the sources said. The NFL office was unable to provide any details.

Chicago Tribune


Read more: http://www.fannation.com/truth_and_rumors/view/287390-exclusive-owners-group-attempts-secret-meeting?utm_source=bleacherreport.com&utm_medium=referral#ixzz1O8DKPAoP

[theogt]

First non-court mandated meeting in forever certainly can't be a bad thing. That's the key. This is encouraging.

[BrAinPaiNt]

My "inside" my head Sources tell me that D.Smith used his evil incarnate powers to locate the secret meeting and flew there to disrupt any possible headway.

In essence he was playing the role of TO trying to breakup Tony and Jason's secret meetings to prevent secret plays.:p:

[Doomsday101]

Where is the magic 8 ball when we need it. :laugh2:

[peplaw06]

That's the nasty thing about agendas. When you have one and something comes out that indicates you may be wrong, you get to hear about it.

I'm sure I've never seen you do the same thing. :rolleyes:

[Sam I Am]

I think the NFLPA knows they are about to get slapped down. Combine that with the unrest from several players. (probably far more than has been reported in the media) They are probably looking to resolve this before a hearing happens to try and save face in the media.

[Frozen700]

I think the NFLPA knows they are about to get slapped down. Combine that with the unrest from several players. (probably far more than has been reported in the media) They are probably looking to resolve this before a hearing happens to try and save face in the media.

hope you are right my boy

[BrAinPaiNt]

That's the nasty thing about agendas. When you have one and something comes out that indicates you may be wrong, you get to hear about it.

I'm sure I've never seen you do the same thing. :rolleyes:

Ding Ding Ding

[Sam I Am]

Ding Ding

http://www.sportsagentblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/barry-bonds.jpg

[Hostile]

I think it is interesting that we hear about this because of private planes. They did a good job of keeping the media at bay this time. I really have some hope here.

[WoodysGirl]

Labor talks continuing Thursday, mediator in the mix (http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/06/02/labor-talks-continuing-thursday-mediator-in-the-mix/)

Posted by Gregg Rosenthal on June 2, 2011, 11:53 AM EDT

News out of Chicago regarding the clandestine meeting between NFL and NFLPA* representatives continues to leak, and most of it sounds positive for everyone hoping for progress in labor talks.

Read the rest: http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/06/02/labor-talks-continuing-thursday-mediator-in-the-mix/

[Gaede]

Pretty indicative of this offseason when, even at the first sign of good news, folks are still bickering, picking sides and being generally combative

[Hostile]

Labor talks continuing Thursday, mediator in the mix (http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/06/02/labor-talks-continuing-thursday-mediator-in-the-mix/)

Posted by Gregg Rosenthal on June 2, 2011, 11:53 AM EDT

News out of Chicago regarding the clandestine meeting between NFL and NFLPA* representatives continues to leak, and most of it sounds positive for everyone hoping for progress in labor talks.

Read the rest: http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/06/02/labor-talks-continuing-thursday-mediator-in-the-mix/
Thank you Lord. With these guys face to face I think it will get done. Let's hope the Mediator is a fan.

[WoodysGirl]

It's no different than when the NFLPA announced they were doing the Rookie Symposium and folks expressed cynicism that somehow it was a bad thing.

It's what people do.

[cowboyjoe]

AlbertBreerAlbert Breer


Another important note on Boylan: role in Chicago not the same as in Minneapolis. He's not "mediating" these talks, per se.

9 minutes ago

AlbertBreerAlbert Breer

The NFL-NFLPA meetings are still ongoing in Chicago, and are scheduled to wrap up midday today.

13 minutes ago


AlbertBreerAlbert Breer

The players I've heard were there: Mike Vrabel, Tony Richardson, Jeff Saturday, Brian Dawkins, Kevin Mawae.

23 minutes agoFavoriteRetweetReply


AlbertBreerAlbert Breer

I can confirm US Magistrate Judge Arthur Boylan has been in attendance at the Chicago meetings.

[clutch88]

The only constant in this whole mess is the lawyer's. If you really think they want a quick end to this you're in denial. The longer the more money for them. :mad:

[Outlaw Heroes]

The only constant in this whole mess is the lawyer's. If you really think they want a quick end to this you're in denial. The longer the more money for them. :mad:

Good thing they're not the decision makers, then.

[Hostile]

Good thing they're not the decision makers, then.Was thinking the same thing.

[burmafrd]

Smith is though

[Sam I Am]

Just get it done. Preferably before the ruling on June 6th. (Correct date?, June 6th?)

[Outlaw Heroes]

(Correct date?, June 6th?)

Hearing June 3 (tomorrow). Decision not likely before late June or early July.

[Hostile]

Hearing June 3 (tomorrow). Decision not likely before late June or early July.
I think they had planned to be back in mediation on June 7th too. I admit it, I am optimistic right now. They are doing this together.

[Outlaw Heroes]

I think they had planned to be back in mediation on June 7th too. I admit it, I am optimistic right now. They are doing this together.

Yep. Fingers crossed, but it's a good sign.

[FuzzyLumpkins]

Are you just going to whine over and over about it?

Every single thread ever put up on this subject always includes the D. Smith devil incarnate talk. Every one. i have been pointing it out for a month.

I guess its all good when your partisans turn on the downdraft.

Now you cry?

[Bizwah]

I think they had planned to be back in mediation on June 7th too. I admit it, I am optimistic right now. They are doing this together.

I wish I was. I've been let down too many times in this whole ordeal.

[SkinsFan28]

I think they had planned to be back in mediation on June 7th too. I admit it, I am optimistic right now. They are doing this together.
I agree, sounds like good attendance on both sides, face to face meetings (hopefully) and no court mandate forcing it. This is probably the first hopeful thing we have seen since this started.

AND most importantly (at least so far) NO POSTURING!

[BrAinPaiNt]

This is probably the first hopeful thing we have seen since this started.

I have become really jaded when it comes to these ego maniacs with their greed running front and center.

[Sam I Am]

I have become really jaded when it comes to these ego maniacs with their greed running front and center.

You turned into four rock chics?

http://www.metalmaidens.com/jaded001.jpg

[BrAinPaiNt]

You turned into four rock chics?

http://www.metalmaidens.com/jaded001.jpg

No...but I will take that tiger striped V guitar.:D

[FuzzyLumpkins]

Oh, so no you are going for the martyr routine as well as the saint....

There were a couple of comments made about it. You could have left them alone as the usual suspects have chosen to keep mum as it really does underscore the stupidity of the position. YOU have gone and made a spectacle out of it. You are the one stirring up responses. YOU are the response.

And its not about protecting Smith but about showing the stupidity of the scapegoating of one individual in most any process.

[cowboyjoe]

I think they had planned to be back in mediation on June 7th too. I admit it, I am optimistic right now. They are doing this together.

Right, wasnt it Hos, that the owners and NFL wanted longer to reply about June 26th, but the circuit court told them they had to reply by june 6th or june 7th.

Hey Hos, I just thought of something, this could go down maybe June 6th, and you know what happened on June 6th about 67 years ago on June 6th dont you?

Maybe this will be D Day for the NFL Lockout and it busts out and gets settled.

If it does happen on June 6th, can I say I called it, NFL War Day on Lockout June 6th, 2011, something like that???

[burmafrd]

Oh, so no you are going for the martyr routine as well as the saint....

There were a couple of comments made about it. You could have left them alone as the usual suspects have chosen to keep mum as it really does underscore the stupidity of the position. YOU have gone and made a spectacle out of it. You are the one stirring up responses. YOU are the response.

And its not about protecting Smith but about showing the stupidity of the scapegoating of one individual in most any process.

Considering your comments about the owners this is funny

[cowboyjoe]

BradBiggsBrad Biggs

by mortreport
De Smith and 5 players just left meeting w/ NFL in a Chicago suburb. Details to follow this afternoon at Chicago Tribune.

5 minutes agoFavoriteRetweetReply


CBSSportsNFLEye on Footbal

RT @willbrinson: Just wrapped up @CBSSports NFL meetings. Somehow managed to hire @PriscoCBS as my life coach last night. #ruhroh

[RS12]

A person with knowledge of the talks tells The Associated Press those mediation sessions began Tuesday and ended Wednesday near Chicago. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the meetings were supposed to be secret. The person says various issues were discussed, but "to characterize it as progress might not be accurate."

Judge Arthur Boylan was scheduled to resume mediation sessions June 7, but got the sides together early.

http://www.startribune.com/sports/vikings/123028638.html

[FuzzyLumpkins]

Considering your comments about the owners this is funny

Owners at best is a collective.

Smith, Kessler, Saturday, Vrabel, Mawae et al vs. Pash, Goodell, Jones, Kraft, Richardson et al.

or

Smith out to destroy the notion of football and pretty much everything else I love.

Its not the rampage of D. Smith to ruin the NFL. The closest thing I have said about demonization of anything would be the NFL's PR firm or firms but I do not know enough about the inner workings to say anything definitive.

I do not say anything definitive. I do think they are damn good at steering public opinion and you see a systematic approach but i do not know who or where it comes from or who and what is involved.

[SilverStarCowboy]

A line in the concrete drawn in Chicago?

If the Owners are United the Union will ultimately fall and cease to exist, then the Owners can set a Free Agency Cap.

Forget about it!

[sunbum]

Probably mostly deal as I would think the strategy for the owners is pretty laid out right now. I do see some owners as being more likely to listen to the other side and I'm as sure as is possible that Jerry is one of them. Jerry gets a lot of love from the other owners. He has increased their coffers considerably since he's come into this league.

I would have to think deal as well being NFLPA leader DeMaurice Smith was present.

I know them billionaire owners can be arrogant but to talk strategy right in front of opposition takes it to a whole new level! :laugh2:

[cowboyjoe]

Labor talks continuing Thursday, mediator in the mix

Posted by Gregg Rosenthal on June 2, 2011, 11:53 AM EDT
http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/06/02/labor-talks-continuing-thursday-mediator-in-the-mix/
Getty Images
News out of Chicago regarding the clandestine meeting between NFL and NFLPA* representatives continues to leak, and most of it sounds positive for everyone hoping for progress in labor talks.

Mark Maske of the Washington Post reports that talks between the two sides have continued Thursday, and are expected to wrap up mid-day. Since we saw a picture of Patriots owner Robert Kraft leaving Chicago last night, presumably not all of the original parties at the session remain in attendance.

[cowboyjoe]

Not-so-secret meeting was lawyer-free (except for De)

Posted by Mike Florio on June 2, 2011, 11:02 AM EDT

Reuters
For months, key figures on each side of the NFL’s labor dispute have called for negotiations to occur without the lawyers present.
http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/06/02/not-so-secret-meeting-was-lawyer-free-except-for-de/
Finally, it has happened.

Updating and clarifying prior information on the Chicago-area meeting between the league and representatives of the NFLPA*, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that no lawyers attended, with the exception of NFLPA* executive director DeMaurice Smith. Accompanying Smith were NFLPA* president Kevin Mawae and Executive Committee members Jeff Saturday and Mike Vrabel.

[cowboyjoe]

http://midwasted.com/zine/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/demaurice-smith.jpgAccording to reports from NFL Network’s Albert Breer and ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Chris Mortensen, a meeting amongst league owners took place in Chicago earlier this week with head of the NFL Players Association, DeMaurice Smith, in attendance.

The reports indicate that the meetings were designed for the two sides to try and work out some differences before June 3, a key court date in St. Louis. On that day, the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals will hear both sides case and decide whether or not to lift the injunction issued by U.S. District Judge Susan Nelson a little over a month ago.

http://nflmocks.com/2011/06/02/report-demaurice-smith-attends-meeting-with-league-owners/

According to a more recent update by Mark Maske of the Washington Post, the meetings will go into Thursday afternoon. Maske also reported that Judge Arthur Boylan, the mediator assigned by Judge Nelson, was in attendance.

[cowboyjoe]

More twitter stuff Hos, but thats where i am getting a bulk of info;

Greg_A_BedardGreg A. Bedard
Kraft left last night. Was not there today.
8 minutes ago


Greg_A_BedardGreg A. Bedard
Basically it was the long-awaited "get the lawyers out of the room" meeting called for by Vrabel, Kraft. How much progress? Don't know
8 minutes agoFavoriteRetweetReply


Greg_A_BedardGreg A. Bedard
I'm sure this has been reported but it was Smith and 5 players for NFLPA, Goodell, Rooney, Kraft, Jones Richardson for NFL plus Boylan.
9 minutes ago

Greg_A_BedardGreg A. Bedard
Been out of the loop so I don't know what's been reported on the clandestine labor negotiation meeting.

10 minutes ago

adbrandtAndrew Brandt
Keep them there until they make a deal, Brad! RT @BradBiggs Roger Goodell and Jerry Jones just left Hotel Baker as they leave meetings.

13 minutes ago

adbrandtAndrew Brandt
Hoping for best from Chicago meetings between NFL-NFLPA, perhaps some common ground found in advance of Courtroom game tomorrow.

[AMERICAS_FAN]

Updating and clarifying prior information on the Chicago-area meeting between the league and representatives of the NFLPA*, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that no lawyers attended, with the exception of NFLPA* executive director DeMaurice Smith. Accompanying Smith were NFLPA* president Kevin Mawae and Executive Committee members Jeff Saturday and Mike Vrabel.

Updating and clarifying prior information on the Garden of Eden meeting between Adam and Eve, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that no lawyers attended, with the exception of NFLPA* executive director The Snake.

Fixed! :D

[cowboyjoe]

AlbertBreerAlbert Breer
(statement cont): "... before Chief Magistrate Judge Boylan. The court has ordered continued confidentiality of the mediation sessions.”
1 minute agoFavoriteRetweetReply


NFLprguyBrian McCarthy
by realfreemancbs
confirming mtgs w/ reps of NFLPA. joint statement: http:// .com/3ojw69h
NFL-NFLPA statement

“The parties met pursuant to court mediation. Owners and players were engaged in confidential discussions before Chief Magistrate Judge Boylan. The court has ordered continued confidentiality of the mediation sessions.”


4 minutes ago

AlbertBreerAlbert Breer
NFL/NFLPA statement: “The parties met pursuant to court mediation. Owners and players were engaged in confidential discussions ...

[cowboyjoe]

realfreemancbsmike freeman
Joint NFL-NFLPA statement confirms discussions with mediator. Talks are confidential. Which means I'll have details by 5 at the latest.

[BrAinPaiNt]

realfreemancbsmike freeman
Joint NFL-NFLPA statement confirms discussions with mediator. Talks are confidential. Which means I'll have details by 5 at the latest.

:laugh2: Gotta love it.
Told to keep shut about it but even the media, or whoever this guy is, knows that someone will run their mouth.

[Hostile]

:laugh2: Gotta love it.
Told to keep shut about it but even the media, or whoever this guy is, knows that someone will run their mouth.http://www.cbssports.com/columns/writers/freeman

[RS12]

jasonjwilde Jason Wilde
HUGE news if real talks. RT @dkaplanSBJ: Minnesota federal court has cancelled mediation saying is engaged in confidential settlement talks.
1 minute ago

[speedkilz88]

:thumbup:

[cowboyjoe]

:thumbup:


seconds ago


AlbertBreerAlbert Breer
Just got to my hotel room ... Read the court filing on next week's mediation being cancelled. Wording is interesting, to say the least.

1 minute agoFavoriteRetweetReply

Greg_A_BedardGreg A. Bedard
Boylan signed the order cutting off mediation for settlement talks.

2 minutes ago


realfreemancbsmike freeman
This is getting interesting folks.

2 minutes ago


adbrandtAndrew Brandt
Mediation cancelled next week, as per @dkaplansbj. Means more negotiating, less lawyering after hearing tmrw. Hope floats.

[cowboyjoe]

AlbertBreerAlbert Breer
... In 1993, the last time issues this serious existed, the NFL and players reached a "settlement". Terms of the next CBA were in it.
41 seconds ago



AlbertBreerAlbert Breer
OK, in layman's terms ... Parties are in "settlement discussions", per the court, which isn't the same, but not far from CBA negotiations.

[speedkilz88]

They must be close. Tomorrow's lockout /hearing looks to be what finally forced some hands.

[Outlaw Heroes]

They must be close.

Let's hope. I think it's also possible that they realized that face to face talks are more productive in this sort of situation than having a mediator shuttling back and forth between two sides sitting in separate rooms.

[speedkilz88]

Let's hope. I think it's also possible that they realized that face to face talks are more productive in this sort of situation than having a mediator shuttling back and forth between two sides sitting in separate rooms.For the mediator and judge to sign off on it though, I think they must have made some major headway. And that court hearing is looming. edit there

[cowboyjoe]

BryanBroaddusBryan Broaddus
RT @adbrandt: Mediation cancelled next week, as per @dkaplansbj. Means more negotiating, less lawyering after hearing tmrw. Hope floats.

51 seconds agoFavoriteRetweetReply


NFLLIVEonESPNNFL LIVE on ESPN
According to our John Clayton, the judge has cancelled next week's mediation session...find out what it all means at 4 ET on ESPN

[Gemini Dolly]

Sounds promising :pray:

[Outlaw Heroes]

For the mediator and judge to sign off on it though, I think they must have made some major headway.

Good point. Given that the June 7 session was court-ordered, I think approval of the court would be required in order to cancel in favor of settlement talks. And that might well require evidence of significant progress.

[BrAinPaiNt]

All of this better not lead up to some crazy geico commercial.:mad:

[peplaw06]

All of this better not lead up to some crazy geico commercial.:mad:Prepare to be Rick Roll'd.

[StylisticS]

I remember a thread back in February saying that the lockout will likely end around this time. Correct me if I'm wrong.

[Outlaw Heroes]

All of this better not lead up to some crazy geico commercial.:mad:

There's a joke in there somewhere, though I can't quite seem to execute it. Something about a (Gordan) Gecko and the idea that "greed is good".

[cowboyjoe]

I remember a thread back in February saying that the lockout will likely end around this time. Correct me if I'm wrong.

I heard reports of june or mid june, thats what ive been saying

some media writer said what he heard from talking to owners, gms, etc and players, would get done sometime in june

[Frozen700]

man i hope football is back

i wanna hear some training camp news soon....and free agent signing

[cowboyjoe]

Greg_A_BedardGreg A. Bedard
Globe Patriots blog: NFL, NFLPA engaged in settlement talks: By Greg A. Bedard, Globe staff There is hope on the ... http://bo.st/mg7raT

2 minutes agoFavoriteRetweetReply


BryanBroaddusBryan Broaddus
RT @SI_PeterKing: Re "settlement talks:" Could be significant, because players have wanted talks w/power-brokers who could make a deal.

[dwarecwby311]

come on baby, come on baby, come on baby

[cowboyjoe]

come on baby, come on baby, come on baby


AlbertBreerAlbert Breer
... He wasn't "mediating" the talks, per se. Which would lead you to believe there was more face-to-face talks between the sides.
Note, Hos posted an article awhile back about the mediation were in seperate rooms not face to face per say. Now, maybe something is finally getting done. I did send the article that Hostile talked about to several media writers, hopefully to get some action. Dont know if that worked or not, but I tried.
3 minutes ago


AlbertBreerAlbert Breer
Worth reiterating too what I reported earlier -- Judge Boylan's role, I'm told, was different in Chicago than it was for earlier mediation.

4 minutes agoFavoriteRetweetReply

[dwarecwby311]

WE WANT FOOTBALL

WE WANT FOOTBALL

/chant

[Apollo Creed]

Hopefully Jerry doesn't get frat boy drunk and gets in front of the camera.

Last year it was the Tuna and Tebow, this year it can be Wade and Cam.

"(blank) Wade Phillips, ole snack machine couldn't even turn around a defense with 10 first rounders. And don't get me started on Cam, that trickster almost got me to pay him 25 grand for shaking his hand at the combine. You can't hustle a hustler."

[DallasEast]

They must be close. Tomorrow's lockout /hearing looks to be what finally forced some hands.
Maybe we should all send the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals a thank you note.

[windward]

This sounds promising :)

Keeping my fingers crossed.

[RS12]

There is a still a great deal of work to do, and any agreements could unravel at any day, hour or minute, but it appears the owners and players have made significant headway in reaching a new labor agreement, according to multiple sources familiar with the discussions.

One high ranking member of the former union estimated to me a new deal would be reached within two to three weeks, if not sooner. “This is the most optimistic I’ve been in many months,” he said.

But, like many sources, he urged extreme caution, saying talks could easily break down. “There’s a great deal of animosity to work through,” he said.

The sides will continue to talk in the coming days.

http://mike-freeman.blogs.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/6264363/29747070?ttag=gen10_on_all_fb_na_txt_0001

[jblaze2004]

I think it's a good sign, at least they're meeting without a judge ordering them to do so....

this is how it should have been in march. No lawyers or others just owners and players and head people (godell and the ugly smith) meeting and trying to come up with something. Each is going to have to give something to reach an agreement so football can be played.

[DallasEast]

Wonder if it was the NFLPA* or the owners who took the first step to end this nonsense?

[sonnyboy]

Speaking of posts, I just noticed you're closing in on 100k! Seems like just yesterday you hit 50k.

[Hostile]

Speaking of posts, I just noticed you're closing in on 100k! Seems like just yesterday you hit 50k.I yack too much on here.

[sonnyboy]

I yack too much on here.


About 20 times more than I do. Got to roll. I'll yack to you later.

[Joe Realist]

I yack too much on here.


:post:





:D

[SilverStarCowboy]

Wonder if it was the NFLPA* or the owners who took the first step to end this nonsense?


You know it wasn't the Lawyers.

[DallasEast]

You know it wasn't the Lawyers.
Both sides are represented by lawyers. What I meant was who made this positive first step without their lawyers' involvement: the owners or the trade association?

[Hostile]

Both sides are represented by lawyers. What I meant was who made this positive first step without their lawyers' involvement: the owners or the trade association?It should have been the NFLPA*. They have to know that the 8th's temporary stay of the injunction was bad for them and left them in a tenuous position with very little leverage left. Whether it was or not, at least they were there. That's what I really care about. I want a deal and we were never going to get one through litigation.

[DallasEast]

It should have been the NFLPA*. They have to know that the 8th's temporary stay of the injunction was bad for them and left them in a tenuous position with very little leverage left. Whether it was or not, at least they were there. That's what I really care about. I want a deal and we were never going to get one through litigation.
Curiosity has gotten hold of me. Throughout these past few months, it has been continually suggested (for lack of a better word) that the owners' main intention was to keep this nonsense tied up in court indefinitely.

This contention has been made repeatedly even though the owners wasn't the party which initiated the litigation. This begs the question:

"If it was the owners (and not the NFLPA*) who got this crap headed towards an eventual resolution, does that not mean that they did not want this nonsense forever tied up in court?"

[Hostile]

Curiosity has gotten hold of me. Throughout these past few months, it has been continually suggested (for lack of a better word) that the owners' main intention was to keep this nonsense tied up in court indefinitely.

This contention has been made repeatedly even though the owners wasn't the party which initiated the litigation. This begs the question:

"If it was the owners (and not the NFLPA*) who got this crap headed towards an eventual resolution, does that not mean that they did not want this nonsense forever tied up in court?"I don't see how the owners can be accused of wanting to be sued.

[WoodysGirl]

Both sides are represented by lawyers. What I meant was who made this positive first step without their lawyers' involvement: the owners or the trade association?
To be honest, I don't find that information important. Is it really important to know who made the first call?

Nobody's clean in this mess, so as long as the other party picked up the phone, then we know all we needed to know...and that discussions took place as a result.

[DallasEast]

To be honest, I don't find that information important. Is it really important to know who made the first call?

Nobody's clean in this mess, so as long as the other party picked up the phone, then we know all we needed to know...and that discussions took place as a result.
I think it has some relevance since the whole thing could have been avoided. That's just my opinion though.

[DallasEast]

I don't see how the owners can be accused of wanting to be sued.
That's one way of looking at it. Another way is to state that the only logical solution for being confronted with negotiations not presented in good faith within a week's time is to sue.

[WoodysGirl]

I think it has some relevance since the whole thing could have been avoided. That's just my opinion though.
Why would it be relevant? I'm not sure what value can be obtained from knowing who made the first call.

I'm way past caring about whether it should've been avoided. This is where we are now...watching the litigation process. Assigning blame seems to be pointless, IMO. It is what it is ~My favorite phrase right now. ;)

[DallasEast]

Why would it be relevant? I'm not sure what value can be obtained from knowing who made the first call.

I'm way past caring about whether it should've been avoided. This is where we are now...watching the litigation process. Assigning blame seems to be pointless, IMO. It is what it is ~My favorite phrase right now. ;)
Both parties deserve blame and deservedly so. However, is it wrong to appreciate the effort of the party which has done a little extra to end this labor dispute? Especially if that same party was predicted of never making the effort? I would, but understandably that would be only a personal token of thanks from myself. So I guess the only relevance in reality would be important for me alone as well. :)

[WoodysGirl]

Both parties deserve blame and deservedly so. However, is it wrong to appreciate the effort of the party which has done a little extra to end this labor dispute? Especially if that same party was predicted of never making the effort? I would, but understandably that would be only a personal token of thanks from myself. So I guess the only relevance in reality would be important for me alone as well. :)
It's not wrong to want to thank one party, but maybe it's better to thank both groups for pulling their head out of their butts and sit down and talk.

[Reality]

Both parties deserve blame and deservedly so. However, is it wrong to appreciate the effort of the party which has done a little extra to end this labor dispute? Especially if that same party was predicted of never making the effort? I would, but understandably that would be only a personal token of thanks from myself. So I guess the only relevance in reality would be important for me alone as well. :)

Even if it later comes out who made the first move, it is quite likely the other side was just as close to asking the same thing but the other side asked first. Typically these kinds of backroom negotiations are hinted at over time rather than a wild, "Hey! I have an idea!" moment.

With all due respect to the lawyers on this site, it's well known that lawyers typically are weak at negotiating because it is in their nature to win, not negotiate. Lawyers play an important role in the whole negotiation process, but are best left out of the actual negotiation itself. Let the lawyers advise each side during breaks in negotiations and let them dot the i's and cross the t's to make sure each side does not get screwed later, but leave all of them out in the hall during the actual negotiation process.

In any case, I agree with WG .. I'm just glad they are talking and for the first time, it seems like both sides are showing a genuine desire to reach an agreement.

-Reality

[Hostile]

In any case, I agree with WG .. I'm just glad they are talking and for the first time, it seems like both sides are showing a genuine desire to reach an agreement.As well they should. Both stand to lose a lot by screwing this up and no matter which side gets the better end of the deal, in the long run none of them are suffering.

[dogberry]

Wulf, one of my personalities that the other sixteen usually keep locked up, is going to be disappointed. He was hoping for an outcome like "On the Beach." It is looking more like "Springtime for Hitler" will be how the lockout plays out.

[Seven]

To be honest, I don't find that information important. Is it really important to know who made the first call?

Nobody's clean in this mess, so as long as the other party picked up the phone, then we know all we needed to know...and that discussions took place as a result.



:hammer:

[Hoofbite]

Curiosity has gotten hold of me. Throughout these past few months, it has been continually suggested (for lack of a better word) that the owners' main intention was to keep this nonsense tied up in court indefinitely.

This contention has been made repeatedly even though the owners wasn't the party which initiated the litigation. This begs the question:

"If it was the owners (and not the NFLPA*) who got this crap headed towards an eventual resolution, does that not mean that they did not want this nonsense forever tied up in court?"

I think you can look at their statements and see who wanted it to get to this point.

For like 2 years Goodell has been saying the two sides need to start getting to the table and working it out.

Meanwhile, Smith has been saying the lockout was coming. Hell, last February this article (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=4890127) came out.

Smith estimated the chance of a lockout next year was "14" on a scale of 1 to 10.

Warning players to hold back money for like 2 seasons and imposing their own deadlines on negotiations.

Seems pretty clear to me.

[peplaw06]

With all due respect to the lawyers on this site, it's well known that lawyers typically are weak at negotiating because it is in their nature to win, not negotiate. Lawyers play an important role in the whole negotiation process, but are best left out of the actual negotiation itself. Let the lawyers advise each side during breaks in negotiations and let them dot the i's and cross the t's to make sure each side does not get screwed later, but leave all of them out in the hall during the actual negotiation process.
I haven't had time to catch up with everything in this thread yet... just thought I'd say this is ridiculous.

90-95% of all cases in the court system are settled. That doesn't get done because lawyers stay out of the process. Most of the time, in the cases I deal with, the cases get settled strictly because of the lawyers and in spite of the parties.

[Reality]

I haven't had time to catch up with everything in this thread yet... just thought I'd say this is ridiculous.

90-95% of all cases in the court system are settled. That doesn't get done because lawyers stay out of the process. Most of the time, in the cases I deal with, the cases get settled strictly because of the lawyers and in spite of the parties.

The only time that usually happens is when one side convinces the other they will lose in court. When both sides feel they will win, the lawyers do nothing but collect legal fees or retainers, schedule meeting after meeting and drag it on until the people themselves flinch or take over the negotiations.

Lawyers serve their purpose and the typical game plan is to exert as much confidence (such as you try to do here) as possible from the start in an effort to intimidate the other side into blinking.

When you have the deep pockets the NFLPA and the NFL have, you end up with two sets of legal teams who are not used to losing which is a recipe for a very long and drawn out litigation process.

Being a lawyer is all about exuding confidence and controlling the process. I understand it is frustrating for lawyers, including yourself, when rulings do not go your way because you still believe you are right about everything. No matter which side "wins" a ruling, I guarantee the other side's legal team will think the judge(s) applied the wrong law or incorrectly interpreted the law in their ruling. It's the lawyer equivalent of saying, "The better team lost."

-Reality

[peplaw06]

The only time that usually happens is when one side convinces the other they will lose in court. When both sides feel they will win, the lawyers do nothing but collect legal fees or retainers, schedule meeting after meeting and drag it on until the people themselves flinch or take over the negotiations.

Lawyers serve their purpose and the typical game plan is to exert as much confidence (such as you try to do here) as possible from the start in an effort to intimidate the other side into blinking.

When you have the deep pockets the NFLPA and the NFL have, you end up with two sets of legal teams who are not used to losing which is a recipe for a very long and drawn out litigation process.

Being a lawyer is all about exuding confidence and controlling the process. I understand it is frustrating for lawyers, including yourself, when rulings do not go your way because you still believe you are right about everything. No matter which side "wins" a ruling, I guarantee the other side's legal team will think the judge(s) applied the wrong law or incorrectly interpreted the law in their ruling. It's the lawyer equivalent of saying, "The better team lost."

-RealityNot true.