The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) is shaking things up with its annual report cards. Why does the NFL seem to despise them? Well, according to ESPN’s Seth Wickersham and Don Van Natta Jr., the league has even filed a grievance to stop the practice.
The NFL argues that these report cards breach the Collective Bargaining Agreement. In an August 2025 letter, the league insisted that the NFLPA should “curtail public comments that criticize any club, its coach, or its policies.”
Despite this, the NFLPA is moving forward with this year’s survey. In a message to players, they emphasized their commitment to using these evaluations as a tool for improving workplace standards within the league.
Some team owners have taken the feedback seriously, leading to changes in operations. However, others, like Jets owner Woody Johnson, have openly criticized the report cards instead. This reaction is typical for teams that may not appreciate constructive feedback about their performance.
These report cards stand out as a major innovation for the NFLPA, especially since team owners often shy away from accountability. Fans usually remain loyal to their teams, even if the performance is lacking, preventing any real pressure for improvement. The financial side often overshadowing poor game results means teams can continue to thrive, regardless of their standing.
As one owner bluntly put it, “The only owners who don’t care for these report cards are the ones who get the subpar grades.”
This response reflects a broader trend in our society. Instead of addressing issues, some prefer to attack the source of criticism—especially if they can do it through legal means.
It’s vital for the NFLPA to stay strong in this fight. If the NFL truly values its players, perhaps they can negotiate meaningful changes, like ensuring high-quality grass fields in every stadium.
In similar news, a recent survey showed that 73% of players feel more empowered to voice their concerns because of these evaluations. Feedback like this is crucial, not just for individual players, but for the entire league culture.
As we watch this unfold, it remains clear that accountability and openness have become essential for any organization aiming for success. Let’s see if the NFL can adapt to this new, transparent environment.
