How the NFLPA Works

Why do players need a union and what does it actually do?

The National Football League Players Association (NFLPA) is the union for professional football players in the National Football League.

The union allows players to stand together to protect their health, rights, and families.
The union was formed in 1956. Players used their combined strength to force owners to provide basics like clean uniforms and safer equipment.
Our job is to represent players’ interests during negotiations for the next CBA and to make sure players are well informed and prepared for them.
In 2011, we negotiated a landmark Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) after an 18-week lockout by the owners.
In March 2020, we negotiated the current CBA, which runs through the 2030 season.
The current CBA brought new gains to our members, including an increased share in revenue, expanded roster sizes, a sizable bump in minimum salaries, health & safety advances, rookie contract bonuses, and more.

Represents all players in matters concerning wages, hours and working conditions and protects their rights as professional football players
Makes sure that the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) are met
Negotiates and monitors retirement and insurance benefits
Provides other member services and activities
Provides assistance to charitable and community organizations
Enhances and defends the image of players and their profession on and off the field

The NFLPA works from the bottom-up. All power and authority to do anything in the NFLPA comes from the Board of Reps who are elected by the player members.
Player Members on each NFL team elect both a Player Representative and three Co-Alternate Player Representatives to serve on the Board of Player Representatives (The Board of Player Reps).
The Board of Player Reps meets at least once a year and makes all of the important decisions for the organization.

Explore Our History of Wins to learn how we’ve been fighting for player rights since 1956.
Browse Player Marketing Solutions to find out how we’re protecting group licensing rights and generating income for every NFL player through our marketing and licensing arm Players, Inc.