Story perspectives

NFLPA's Collusion Appeal Gains Momentum Amid Legal Setbacks

3/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

The NFL won a collusion grievance in 2022 concerning teams not offering fully-guaranteed contracts after Deshaun Watson's $230 million deal.
The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) appealed the ruling, which is still pending.
In January 2026, an arbitrator denied the NFL's request for the NFLPA to reimburse about $14 million in legal fees.
The NFLPA had a reasonable basis for its collusion claim, despite the NFL's allegations of false testimony.
The ongoing appeal delay may suggest a favorable outcome for the NFLPA.

1 of 1

Story summary

The NFL won a collusion grievance in 2022 concerning teams not offering fully-guaranteed contracts after Deshaun Watson's $230 million deal.
The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) appealed the ruling, which is still pending.
In January 2026, an arbitrator denied the NFL's request for the NFLPA to reimburse about $14 million in legal fees.
The NFLPA had a reasonable basis for its collusion claim, despite the NFL's allegations of false testimony.
The ongoing appeal delay may suggest a favorable outcome for the NFLPA.