This change comes from the collective bargaining agreement that expires March 4 in the NFL. Owners across the NFL want to take another $1 million of the $11 million in revenue generated by the NFL themselves (to put toward “stadium renovations and upkeep”). This would cut roughly 18 percent of the average NFL players’ salary.
Not only do the players take a hit if this collective bargaining agreement can’t be settled by next season, but last year’s record fan base could also take a substantial downturn — not to mention the public’s perception of the NFL and its players. The cities that host these teams, news mediums that depend on their games for their content, advertisers and those employed by teams and their stadiums could also take an economic hit.
It’s estimated in Indianapolis that the city could lose up to $200 million in revenue and substantially more if the lockout lasts the entire duration of the season (since the Super Bowl is scheduled to be played there this season).
Granted, the lockout is highly unlikely to last long enough to affect the regular season, but the mere impact of even preseason games could drastically affect the economy surrounding its teams and their cities. Not to mention the potential for change in salary distribution and other longstanding effects under review in the collective bargaining agreement.
