NFLPA Files Grievance on Behalf of Eric Reid

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For Immediate Release
May 7, 2018

NFLPA Files Grievance on Behalf of Eric Reid

The NFLPA has filed a non-injury grievance and a system arbitrator case on behalf of free agent safety Eric Reid. Prior to the start of the current NFL off-season, our Union directed the agents of free agent players who had participated in peaceful on-field demonstrations to collect, memorialize and report any relevant information about potential violations of the Collective Bargaining Agreement by teams. These cases were filed based upon the following:

  • There is no League rule that prohibits players from demonstrating during the national anthem.
  • The NFL has made it clear both publicly and to the NFLPA that they would respect the rights of players to demonstrate.
  • The Collective Bargaining Agreement definitively states that League (NFL) rules supersede anyconflicting club rules.
  • According to our information, a club appears to have based its decision not to sign a playerbased on the player’s statement that he would challenge the implementation of a club’s policy prohibiting demonstration, which is contrary to the League policy.
  • At least one club owner has asked preemployment interview questions about a player's intent to demonstrate. We believe these questions are improper, given League policy.

Our Union continues to monitor these developments.

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