FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — NFL players might be socking away their paychecks soon to get ready for a lockout that could cost them their entire salary in 2011.
The pro football players’ union has advised its members to save their last three game checks this year in case next season is canceled. In a letter to the players that was viewed by The Associated Press, NFLPA executive director DeMaurice Smith said the union’s “internal deadline” for agreeing to a new collective bargaining agreement has passed.
“It is important that you protect yourself and your family,” he wrote in the letter, which was dated Wednesday.
NFLPA spokesman George Atallah declined to elaborate on what effect the passing of the self-imposed deadline would have on negotiations, saying the letter was an “internal communication.”
But copies were strewn across a table Saturday in the Patriots’ locker room, where they were visible to players, reporters and team officials. After a reporter asked players about the letter, a Patriots spokesman flipped the copies face- down.
NFL spokesman Greg Aiello called the news of a deadline “disappointing and inexplicable, especially for fans.”
“We hope this does not mean the union has abandoned negotiating in favor of decertifying and litigating,” he said. “We are ready to meet and negotiate anytime and anywhere. But it takes sustained effort and shared commitment to reach an agreement. One side can’t do it alone.”
Jets’ Leonhard goes on IR
NEW YORK — Jets safety Jim Leonhard was placed on injured reserve, ending the season for one of the team’s defensive leaders a day after he broke his right shin in practice.
A stabilizing rod was placed through Leonhard’s tibia during surgery Friday. The Jets said he is expected to make a full recovery and that there was no damage to his fibula, ankle or knee.
Leonhard, who calls defensive signals in the secondary and returns punts, was injured during team drills when he collided with wide receiver Patrick Turner.
• Jets wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery was listed as probable for Monday’s game at New England after missing two games with a groin injury.
Cowboys’ Bryant probable vs. Colts
IRVING, Texas — Cowboys rookie receiver Dez Bryant is listed as probable for today’s game at Indianapolis while dealing with a back problem and left ankle injury.
The team said Bryant injured his left ankle in practice Friday. He had already been limited in practice this week because of a back problem.
The Associated Press
