Originally Posted by AsylumGuido (Post 918306)

The NFLPA has asked all players to hold out of all voluntary activities until after COVID is no longer a concern. It is expected that all players will end up complying with that request. So, it's looking like no OTA's once again nor any other voluntary workouts.

Memo:

“We have been in regular contact with the NFL on negotiations over a virtual offseason. As we have shared with your Executive Committee and Board, it is clear that neither side wants to move off their respective position. As we have made clear throughout bargaining: The COVID status in the country is as perilous as it was at this point last year; a number of players recently tested positive at team facilities. COVID weekly positive rates are as high, if not higher than, at this point last offseason; and NFL players who contracted COVID last season can become infected again.

“We believe that having the same offseason rules as last year is in the best interest of . . . the players and gives us the best chance of completing a full NFL season in 2021.

“As you know, other than minicamps, all offseason workouts are completely voluntary despite some of the language used by the clubs in recent days. And, while the CBA allows the teams to host mandatory minicamps, we believe the league should make them virtual just like last season.

“It is the recommendation of the NFLPA based on our medical experts’ advice that if the voluntary offseason program is in person, players should not attend. Therefore, as teams host calls to discuss these issues we urge that all players consider their own health and safety, make a personal decision about attending voluntary workouts and take into consideration the unanimous recommendation of the NFLPA COVID committee that we have an entirely virtual offseason.

“Please let your Player Director know what the consensus is of your teammates regarding their individual decision about the voluntary offseason period. We will let you know what we hear regarding minicamps and training camp structure and schedule.”

Originally Posted by The Dude (Post 918420)

Because nobody gives a rats ass about Covid anymore. A lot of these players didn’t give a **** during the regular season when they were forced to be there every day. They sure as hell aren’t going to adhere to procedure at this point.
Players are just getting lazy. I too have noticed more sloppy starts in the last several years.

Originally Posted by ChrisXVI (Post 918421)

Last years rookies like Ruiz, Baun and Trautman will lose even more development. I was hoping for a full offseason of development for them but it’s apparently not going to happen. It’s imperative that we draft plug and play starters this year.

Originally Posted by ChrisXVI (Post 918421)

Last years rookies like Ruiz, Baun and Trautman will lose even more development. I was hoping for a full offseason of development for them but it’s apparently not going to happen. It’s imperative that we draft plug and play starters this year.

Originally Posted by AsylumGuido (Post 918423)

Those are few and far between. They were talking about that on NFL Radio yesterday. ALL rookies need development even if they are forced to start. They said no rookie is truly ready.

Originally Posted by ChrisXVI (Post 918427)

Let me pose this question then Guido... would you consider it prudent then to be aggressive and trade up for guys we feel confident can contribute right away? I feel like the prevailing thought this year has been that we have holes and need as many draft picks as possible so DON’T trade up.

Personally, I want to win and I really only see holes at CB and LB. If we can get the best of the best at those positions then let’s do it.

Originally Posted by jeanpierre (Post 918428)

Originally Posted by ChrisXVI (Post 918441)

I think you underestimate Tre’Quan Smith as a Z receiver. He was fantastic in that role in college and then came to a team that didn’t throw it deep. His stock is soaring in my mind with a new QB.

We don’t need O-Line. I know you guys are eager to run off Armstead but he isn’t going anywhere and nor should he. 12 games of Armstead is better than not having Armstead. He’s one of the best in the league. Peat ain’t going anywhere. Ruiz should be making the switch the center.

Originally Posted by Rugby Saint II (Post 918303)

I realize that DeMaurice Smith let the players negotiate for less time getting ready to play NFL football while giving all the power to Godhell. Football is sloppier to start than it was years ago when coaches ran players in the ground and toughened them up. Now we can't force players to fit the system. More and more players are opting out of voluntary workouts.

I realize that more injuries occur in physical practices but if your not ready for it then playing the game is where you will get hurt if your body is not ready for the punishment. If you were a player for the Saints would you opt out of the chance to build chemistry with your team mates and impress the coaches? Personally, I'd try hard to follow the schedule that Brees used to gain such success. First in and last out of the facilities.