• A salary cap for 2011 that would avoid a negative financial impact for veterans.
• Extensive changes in off-season work requirements that would promote player health and safety while also encouraging players to continue their education and promote post-football career opportunities.
• Reduction in preseason and regular-season practices with pads and with contact and increased days off.
• Expanded injury guarantees – including a guarantee of up to $1 million of a second year of a contract for players injured who can’t return to play.
• Lifetime access to medical coverage for players and their families after a player’s retirement.
• Enhanced retirement benefits for pre-1993 players. More than 2,000 former players would have received an immediate increase in pensions averaging nearly 60 percent, funded entirely by owners.

I’m not going to take sides on this deal, and if I had to I would probably side with the players, but that deal seems pretty good. I guess the main issue, the division of the $9 billion, is still the main sticking point, but it sounds like the owners are at least willing to budge on some of the points. The players have already spoken out in anger against the letter, and they maintain that, while it sounds good on paper, that it is deceptive and a “joke”. That’s a bad sign for all of us who just want this thing to be over.

“Dear Rams Fans,

Fresh off of a 2010 season that re-energized our fan base and reminded St. Louis of the collective joy that NFL football can bring to this region, it is disappointing to be writing you today regarding the NFL Players’ Association decision to de-certify and the expiration of the NFL’s Collective Bargaining Agreement.  While we are frustrated that an agreement is not in place, we remain committed to the collective bargaining process and to federal mediation, which is the fastest and most fair path to reach a negotiated agreement with our players that will benefit our fans, players and clubs for the 2011 season and beyond…”

“As this process unfolds, our coaches, scouts and employees are hard at work to improve our team and deliver the experience you deserve as a valued fan. General Manager Billy Devaney and his scouts are on the road scouting this year’s draft class to find the best possible fits for our team. Head Coach Steve Spagnuolo and the coaching staff are game-planning for our 2011 opponents with an eye on capturing the NFC West title.”

You have to appreciate the fact that the team seems to be committed to making the best out of this situation, and the fact that they recognize the importance of the fans. Once again, check out the team’s site to read the entire thing.