The NFL offseason lockout ended Monday, after players unanimously accepted agreements.
A press conference, held with the NFL Players Association on Monday, announced 32 votes in favor of providing fans with another competitive season. The decision ratifies health and safety settlements, enhancing injury protection that positively affects elongating careers.
“I know you love this game as much as I do and I know it has been a very long process since the day that we stood here that night in it.”
New Orleans Saints Owner Tom Benson announced via Twitter Monday that he believes the game of the Saints will move forward stronger than ever.
“The Saints organization has been ready and prepared for this day and we look forward to having Saints football back for our Saints fans very soon,” he said.
The 10-year deal will last until the 2020 season and kicks off this week with players reporting to training camp, teams signing rookies and undrafted players and the start of players getting cut.
The first day of the league is scheduled for Aug. 4th, with the deadline for players to report to clubs to earn a spot in the up-coming season is Aug. 9th. The 2011 preseason kicks off Aug 11.
NFC predictions put the New Orleans Saints back in the top three, basing the predicted success on quarterback Drew Brees and a strong defense from defensive coordinator Greg Williams.
The Saints will start the season at Green Bay on Sept 8th, with a 7:30 pm kickoff.