The NFL Labor Mediation: Only Reading a Few "Tea Leaves" Could Mean Progress
Tuesday will be Day 5 of the NFL's labor mediation between the owners and the players' union (NFLPA). Over the last 4 days of intense talks, there has been very little chirping or leaks by the NFLPA or the owners. The only thing that we have heard is from Charlie Batch, of the Steelers, who offered that "things are going well."
I have been involved in countless mediations. I can advise that a mediation will only be successful if the mediator holds meaningful control over the parties and has their respect. In the case of the NFL, federal mediator George Cohen seems to have these ingredients.
Given the strong media light on the NFL and the ever-present ability to "tweet", virtual silence by the owners and NFLPA should give the fans some reasonable hope that a lock-out may be giving way to another season of football.
My name is Christopher Fusco. I am the managing partner of Callahan & Fusco, LLC with offices in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.