Deal Struck in the NFL and What Happens Next

The NFL Lockout has been on for the last few months while the Players and the Owners fought for their side and benefits that would favor them. Many fans were fed up with the whole situation not liking either side and just wanting a sure season of football around the corner. Now they have that sure thing. Today, the players fulfilled their side by approving the new CBA with the team reps voting unanimously, 32-0, even the Raiders rep. In the deal that was struck, the owners will now keep 52 percent of the revenues, not 47% which was the old number. Also in that deal is the rookie wage scale that will certainly affect the rookies, especially in the first round draft picks. It also affects teams as the first picks in the draft will now have much more value. The current salary cap now is $120 Million. And all it cost the fans was one lousy pre-season game.

So now what? The season gets underway. IMMEDIATELY!!! Okay, so games will still start in September but everything else starts this week. Free Agent negotiations, rookie signings, teams getting together, Brett Favre return talk. You know, the usual yearly stuff now squished into a very short period of time. Somethings to watch out for are the free agent moves like the star DB, Ndamdi Asomugha, and WR, Santonio Holmes. Free agent discussions can begin tomorrow while teams can sign them by Friday. It will be interesting to see who can get Asomugha.

Also, how will this year's rookie class do considering they couldn't meet with team officials? They will certainly take a hit and careers will likely be affected because of it. Veterans will certainly have more of an edge with rookies being even less prepared. Like always, will have to pay close attention to the top QB rookies like Cam Newton to see how they will do.

Well, football's back and while I am a bit disappointed with both sides negotiating instead of one side being unable to negotiate (like congress), I am glad that football has returned as a fan. I'm looking forward to see what moves will be made and how the season will be affected because of this lockout. My Super Bowl pick is... okay, getting ahead of myself a bit. Come back in September.

P.S. Still one big questions looms over my head: Are the 49ers going to bring back Alex Smith to ruin this team more? Looks like they will. WHY!!!