DeMaurice Smith: The right leader at a crucial time for the NFLPA
DeMaurice Smith is a high powered, Washington DC attorney and power broker. He has strong ties to President Obama and Atty. General Eric Holder. Mr. Smith is a graduate of UVA Law and a managing partner in an elite DC law firm. The NFLPA chose this able gentleman as their new leader. In my opinion, they made a very wise decision indeed.
Just a peek at what's on his plate.
The collective bargaining agreement (CBA) that governs the relationship between the NFL owners and players is set to expire. The owners recently opted out of the current deal; thus setting the stage for a potential 2011 showdown/lockout (if a new CBA cannot be negotiated). As if that little issue isn't difficult enough, the current state of the economy will provide further obstacles.
Internally, the NFLPA must address the valid concerns of retired players. There appears to be a growing rift between current, active players and those that are retired. Retired players need better medical benefits and the active players don't want to pay for it; which appears to be short sighted since one day the current players will be retired players and benefit from these increased measures.
Externally, the NFLPA must force the NFL owners to take more responsibility for the long-term care of injured athletes; especially as related to concussions. Disability caused by destroyed knees and backs have long been recognized by the NFL (unfortunately, it is hard as hell to get these disabilities addressed...the process is ridiculous) but the potential short and long-term consequences of concussions continue to be a point of contention.
As you can see, Mr. Smith's expert negotiation skills will be tested...early and often.
Just a peek at what's on his plate.
The collective bargaining agreement (CBA) that governs the relationship between the NFL owners and players is set to expire. The owners recently opted out of the current deal; thus setting the stage for a potential 2011 showdown/lockout (if a new CBA cannot be negotiated). As if that little issue isn't difficult enough, the current state of the economy will provide further obstacles.
Internally, the NFLPA must address the valid concerns of retired players. There appears to be a growing rift between current, active players and those that are retired. Retired players need better medical benefits and the active players don't want to pay for it; which appears to be short sighted since one day the current players will be retired players and benefit from these increased measures.
Externally, the NFLPA must force the NFL owners to take more responsibility for the long-term care of injured athletes; especially as related to concussions. Disability caused by destroyed knees and backs have long been recognized by the NFL (unfortunately, it is hard as hell to get these disabilities addressed...the process is ridiculous) but the potential short and long-term consequences of concussions continue to be a point of contention.
As you can see, Mr. Smith's expert negotiation skills will be tested...early and often.
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