Report: Judge to Impose Forced Mediation This Week
According to Adam Schefter via Twitter, Judge Susan Nelson informed the NFL owners and players that she will impose “forced mediation” for the two sides this week.
Judge Nelson loosely asked the two sides to continue mediation on their own last week, and with stalling efforts, has decided to take action.
Then owner’s side is trying to get George Cohen to mediate for the two sides, as he has a several-week heard-start on anyone else who would likely serve as mediator. The players, on the other hand, prefer Judge Nelson to oversee negotiations.
It has been assumed that Nelson is leaning toward siding with the NFLPA, but is attempting to let the two sides work out an agreement that allows a fair resolution.
Nelson could end up overseeing the negotiations, although there is still a good chance she allows the well-versed Cohen to step in.
Either way, sources on both sides reportedly have told CBSSports.com‘s Mike Freeman that this round of mediation “might lead to a deal”.
Clearly, that is what everyone is hoping for. Stay tuned for more updates on the NFL Lockout.
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