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2026 Player Guide

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WELCOME

Welcome to the NFLPA Player Guide, a handbook to support you throughout your NFL career and beyond. This guide provides information on your rights and benefits as a professional football player as well as information on how the NFLPA, your union, can support you on and off the field.

Please refer to the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and contact your Player Director for specific details.

AT A glance

THE NFL PLAYERS ASSOCIATION [ NFLPA]

The NFLPA is the union for professional football players in the National Football League that advocates for and protects their health, rights and fair wages. The NFLPA is dedicated to the success and well-being of all players on and off the field and has five primary responsibilities:

• Representing all NFL players in matters concerning wages, hours and working conditions, and protecting their rights as professional football players.

• Negotiating and ensuring that the terms of the CBA are met. In March 2020, the NFLPA negotiated the current CBA, which runs through March 2031.

• Monitoring and administering retirement and insurance benefits for current and former players.

• Providing other member services and activities related to players’ off-field interests.

• Marketing, enhancing and defending the image of players and their profession on and off the field.

leadership nflpa

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Jalen Reeves-Maybin currently serves as the President, leading the NFLPA and serving as the union’s chief player advocate to ensure that the union fulfills its mission of serving players past, present and future.

BOARD OF PLAYER REPRESENTATIVES

Player Representatives for each team are elected by their teammates in the fall of every even-numbered year. The Board of Player Reps meets at least once a year and makes all the important decisions for the union. If you have questions about anything regarding the NFLPA, you can reach out to your team’s Player Representative for more information.

Find your team’s Player Rep here

INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

David White currently serves as the Interim Executive Director. At the direction of the players’ elected Board of Player Reps, David provides strategic leadership and makes all significant decisions governing every aspect of the NFLPA’s work and operations, including leading and directing the negotiation and enforcement of the CBA.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

The Executive Committee manages and transacts the business and affairs of the NFLPA between meetings of the Board of Player Representatives. Executive officers are elected for a two-year term in even-numbered years at the annual meeting of the Board of Player Representatives.

OREN BURKS Vice President CALAIS CAMPBELL Vice President AUSTIN EKELER Vice President
CAMERON HEYWARD Vice President CASE KEENUM Vice President
RYAN KELLY Vice President
BRANDON MCMANUS Vice President THOMAS MORSTEAD Vice President
THOMAS HENNESSY Treasurer
Ted Karras Vice President

DIRECTORS

Player Directors are your initial staff point of

about

contact

season THE REguLAR

WHAT SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT DRUG TESTING?

An understanding of the league’s policies is essential to ensure you stay in the game.

Every player will receive an Annual PES test. This test will occur between the training camp report date and the first full weekend of preseason games. A percentage of these tests WILL ALSO include THC testing.

If you sign with a club and have not received the Annual PES test, you will receive the test within a week of signing. A percentage of these tests WILL ALSO be tested for THC.

You can be randomly selected for PES testing each week from the start of training camp until the week after your last game (including post season). During this time, you have three hours to complete the test after notification.

Performance Enhancing Substances (PES) Test

All PES tests check for the following categories of substances:

• anabolic/androgenic steroids (e.g., testosterone, nandrolone, turinabol).

• protein and peptide hormones (e.g., hGH, GHRP, BPC 157).

• anti-estrogenic agents (e.g., tamoxifen).

• selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMS) (e.g., Ostarine).

• diuretics (e.g., chlorothiazide).

• stimulants (e.g., amphetamines, Ritalin, ephedrine).

• gene doping (e.g., GW1516).

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW?

Credited Season

• A player receives a Credited Season for benefit purposes if he is on the Active/Inactive, Injured Reserve (“IR”), or Physically Unable to Perform (“PUP”) list for three or more regular season or postseason games excluding the Pro Bowl.

• A player receives a Credited Season for minimum salary purposes if he is on the Active/Inactive or PUP list for three or more regular season games.

• A Credited Season for benefit purposes may be earned if you have been released injured, signed an injury settlement and paid the equivalent of at least three game checks.

• Practice Squad roster status does not earn you a credited season unless you have earned three prior credited seasons as defined above. You can only earn one additional benefit Credited Season from the Practice Squad regardless of how many seasons you are on a Practice Squad.

Practice Squad Rules

Active rules/waiver rules:

• A Practice Squad player may be elevated to his team’s Active / Inactive List for a game up to three times during the regular season while remaining on his Practice Squad contract. After that, the team cannot elevate the player during the regular season unless his Practice Squad contract is terminated, and he is signed to an NFL Player Contract. Elevations from Practice Squad during the postseason do not count towards these limitations.

• A Practice Squad player is not subject to waivers after being elevated to the Active/Inactive list for a game while still playing on his Practice Squad contract. He will revert to the Practice Squad after the game.

• If an elevated player is injured during the game, he will receive his applicable minimum split salary for as long as he remains injured and unable to play.

Ability to sign with another club:

• Generally, a Practice Squad player may sign an NFL Player Contract with any NFL team at any time (except while elevated), regardless of his existing Practice Squad contract. But certain restrictions do apply to a practice squad player’s ability to sign an NFL Player Contract with his team’s upcoming opponent.

THE REGULAR SEASON

PRACTICE RULES FINE APPEALS

Schedule

During the regular season, teams may hold a maximum of 14 padded practice sessions.

• 11 of those 14 sessions must be held during the first 11 weeks of the regular season. A club may hold two padded practice sessions in the same week during one week of the regular season if it falls within the first 11 weeks.

• The remaining three sessions must be held during the remaining 6 weeks of the regular season. A club can choose the day of the week for such practices.

During the playoffs, clubs can hold one padded practice session per week.

Time Limit

There is a three-hour time limit for practice. Players may participate in on-field activities with their position coaches for a period not to exceed 30 minutes prior to this 3-hour practice.

Teams may hold a walk-through either before or after practice and this will not count against the 3-hour limit.

BYE WEEK

During a team’s bye week period, players will be given a minimum of four consecutive days off. This four-day period must include a Saturday and Sunday. The only exception is if a team is scheduled to play on a Thursday following the bye week. In such an event, players will receive Wednesday to Saturday off at a minimum.

MINI BYE WEEK RULES

After a Thursday game, players are entitled to receive three days off rather than the standard single day off that would occur in a normal week. Typically, the three days off are taken between Friday and Monday, but team schedules differ each year. If a team plays on back-to-back Thursdays, this rule goes into effect after the second Thursday game.

If you are fined by the NFL for an on-field infraction or a uniform violation, you or your agent should connect with our Legal team at legal@nflpa.com Under our CBA, you have the right to appeal these types of fines before a jointly appointed arbitrator. Members from our Legal team will guide you through the steps for how to approach an appeal and can also join you for the appeal. The appeal officer can reduce, cancel, or uphold the fine.

For a first-time offense, watch the fine remediation video by March to receive 25% of your fine money back. Note: only applicable to those fined during the season.

To participate, visit https://auth.wearegameplan.com/

Login with your credentials, which follow this format: Username: First.Lastname4digitrookieyear@nfl.com Password: Lastname4digitrookieyear

For example, a player named John Doe whose rookie year was 2023 would have the username John.Doe2023@nfl.com and the password Doe2023.

If you have any questions, please contact your Player Director.

CHECKLIST END OF SEASON

MY END OF SEASON CHECKLIST

As the season comes to an end, it is important you remember to:

File for workers’ compensation. Refer to Appendix C for more information.

Check your Electronic Medical Records (EMR). Refer to Appendix D for more information.

Review the End of season checklist with your agent and/ or your Player Director.

Explore NFLPA/NFL professional development opportunities.

POSTSEASON PAY

PERFORMANCE-BASED PAY

The NFLPA created the Performance-Based Pay program (PBP), a benefit to increase the compensation of players with lower salary cap costs who earned significant playing time on the field. Players become eligible to receive a bonus distribution in any regular season in which they play at least one official down of offense, defense or special teams. Players will be notified in April of their PBP amounts. This will be distributed in installments between April and July.

A player who is on the Active/Inactive list or IR list of a club during the Wild Card and/or Division playoff game will be paid the following amount for that game:

A player who is on the Active/Inactive List of a club during the Conference Championship and/or Super Bowl and was on the Active/Inactive list for that club for at least 3 prior games that season will be paid the following amount for that game:

Players not covered by the above may be paid a full share, half share, or quarter share for the Conference Championship and/or Super Bowl depending on each player’s specific history that season. See CBA Article 37 for details.

0 5 THE OFFSEASON

WHAT SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT DRUG TESTING?

During the offseason, players could be given two tests: substances of abuse and performing enhancing substances

Substances of Abuse (“SOA”) Policy

The SOA Policy tests for the following substances: – cocaine

synthetic marijuana

amphetamines (includes Adderall)

– opiates

– opioids

– PCP

– MDMA (i.e., ecstasy, molly)

• THC is NOT tested for in this test.

• Free Agent players who have not received the SOA Annual will be tested within a week of signing.

• This test can occur between April 20th and August 9th.

Performance Enhancing Substances (PES) Test (All Players)

During the offseason, you may be tested up to six times. You have 24 hours to complete the test after notification from Drug Free Sport. Notification begins at the time you are informed either directly or when the message is left on your voicemail or when the text message is sent.

OFFSEASON WORKOUT PROGRAM

Per our Collective Bargaining Agreement, the offseason program is voluntary. The program is divided into three phases over nine weeks.

There is no live contact work (e.g., live blocking, tackling).

It primarily includes in-person meetings, classroom instruction, strength/conditioning and drills.

WORKOUTS

• Start Dates:

– New head coach: First Monday in April

– Other clubs: Third Monday in April

• There is a max of four workouts per week (no weekends), including one mandatory minicamp week.

PHASE ONE ( 2 weeks, 4 hrs/day )

• Activities: Strength and conditioning only (“dead ball”).

• Staff: Only strength and conditioning coaches allowed on field.

• Field Time: 90 minutes max.

• Facility Time: Clubs specify two hours; players choose the other two hours.

• Dead Ball Rules apply with the exception of:

QBs can throw to uncovered receivers

Kickers and punters can kick

– Returners may field punts and kickoffs provided they are not covered by any other player – Long snappers snap into a net

– No ball-catching by defensive players

PHASE TWO ( 3 weeks, 4 hrs/day )

Continuation of Phase One rules with exceptions:

– Individual and “perfect play” drills allowed.

– All coaches allowed on the field.

– No offense vs. defense, one-on-ones, or helmets.

PHASE THREE ( 4 weeks, 4 hrs/day )

• Three weeks: 10 total OTAs (max 3 OTAs/week for first two weeks, fourth non-OTA workout allowed under Phase Two rules).

• One week: Mini camp in either week three or four of Phase Three.

• Equipment: Helmets and protective knee/elbow pads only, no pads or live contact.

• Drills: 7 on 7, 9 on 7, and 11 on 11 without live contact.

• Each club can conduct one mandatory minicamp during Phase Three of the offseason workout program.

MINICAMP ( 3 days, 10 hrs/day )

• Physicals: Monday, no practice.

• Practices: Tuesday-Thursday, day off Friday.

• Field Time: 3.5 hours/day max, second practice limited to walk-through activities.

AFTER MINICAMP / END OF PHASE THREE

Dead Ball Rules apply. No organized football activity or on-field football activity is permitted.

CAMP + TRAINING preseason

WHAT SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT DRUG TESTING?

During training camp and the preseason, players could be given two tests: substances of abuse and performing enhancing substances.

Performance Enhancing Substances (“PES”) Policy

The PES annual tests for the following categories of substances:

– anabolic/androgenic steroids (e.g., testosterone, nandrolone, turinabol).

– protein and peptide hormones (e.g., hGH, GHRP, BPC 157)

– anti-estrogenic agents (e.g., tamoxifen).

– selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMS) (e.g., Ostarine)

– diuretics (e.g., chlorothiazide)

– stimulants (e.g., amphetamines, Ritalin, ephedrine).

– gene doping (e.g., GW1516)

• During the offseason, you may be tested up to six times. You have 24 hours to complete the test after notification from Drug Free Sport. Notification begins at the time you are informed either directly or when the message is left on your voicemail or when the text message is sent.

• Between the training camp report date and the first full weekend of preseason games you will receive the Annual PES test. A percentage of these tests WILL ALSO include THC testing.

• Players can be randomly selected for PES testing each week from the start of training camp until the week after their last game. During this time, you have three hours to complete the test after notification.

• If you sign with a club and have not received the Annual PES test, you will receive the test within a week of signing. A percentage of these tests WILL ALSO be tested for THC.

Substances of Abuse (“SOA”) Policy

The SOA Policy tests for the following substances:

cocaine

synthetic marijuana

amphetamines (includes Adderall)

opiates

opioids

PCP

– MDMA (i.e., ecstasy, molly)

• Between April 20th and August 9th, you will receive the Annual SOA test.

• THC is only tested during the Annual PES test during Training Camp before the 1st pre-season game.

• If you are not otherwise in the SOA Program, the Annual SOA test is the only SOA test you will receive each year.

• If you sign with a club and have not received the Annual SOA test, you will receive the test within a week of signing. If you have also not received the Annual PES test, you will receive the test within a week of signing. A percentage of PES tests WILL ALSO be tested for THC.

All players are required to maintain up-to-date location and contact information. Failure to do so may result in fines, suspensions, and enhanced PES and/or SOA testing.

Contact Dr. Lombardo at (614) 620-6052 or by email at JLOMBARDO@DRJALOMBARDO.COM with any issues in updating your information.

Location and Contact information can be updated at:

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW?

Report Date

• For teams that play their opening game on a Thursday, Friday or Sunday, you will report 47 days prior to your opening game.

• For teams that play their opening game on a Monday, you will report 48 days prior to your opening game.

Payment

First Year Player = $2,000 per week

Veterans = $3,500 per week

Days Off Rules

• The first mandatory day off for all players will be on either Day 5 or Day 6 of training camp, at or near the completion of the five-day on-field acclimation period.

• After that, players will be permitted at least one day off every seven days until the club’s first preseason game.

• After the first preseason game players will receive a day off the first or second day immediately following each preseason game.

• The final week of the preseason will be a bye week. Four of the eight days off for training camp will be given after the final preseason game, with three of the days occurring consecutively on the final three days of training camp (e.g. Friday, Saturday, Sunday).

Note: Those clubs whose first regular season game is on a Thursday night will receive three consecutive days off following the club’s final preseason game.

SCHEDULE

Rookies

Players who qualify for the Rookie Football Development Program can be at the facility for 12 hours per working day. After the second preseason game (excluding those playing in the Hall of Fame game) this time limit is reduced to 11 hours per working day.

Veterans

Veteran players not eligible for the Rookie Football Development Program can be at the facility for 11 hours per working day. After the second preseason game (excluding those playing in the Hall of Fame game) this time limit is reduced to 10 hours per working day.

HEALTH + SAFETY PROTOCOLS

A maximum of 16 padded practice sessions are allowed between report date and the end of preseason training camp.

TRAINING CAMP + PRESEASON

PRACTICE RULES

DAY 01

The first day of training camp is limited to:

– Physical Examinations

– Meetings/classroom instruction

– Running and conditioning

Note: No other on-field activity is permitted on Day 1

DAY 02-03

Helmets and protective shirts are permitted for practice

Players may be on the field for no more than 3.5 hours

Two on-field sessions

One practice which can be no longer than 2 hours

Second session is a walk-through for the remaining time balance

Note: No helmets are allowed during the walk-through

DAY 04-05

Helmets and protective shirts are permitted for practice

Players may be on the field for no more than 3.5 hours

Two on-field sessions

One practice which can be no longer than 2 hours

Second session is a walk-through for the remaining time balance

Note: No helmets are allowed during the walk-through

DAY 06- AFTER

Players may be on the field for no more than 4 hrs/day

Two on-field sessions

One practice which can be no longer than 2.5 hours

One walk-through for the remaining time balance

Note: There must be at least a 90-minute break between these two sessions

The final week of preseason training camp is a bye week. Clubs may hold one padded practice during that week. All other practices may be full speed, but non-padded. During the week, players may be on the field for a total of 3.5 hours – practice can be no longer than 2 hours and then a walk-through can last for the remaining of the time balance.

Note: there must be at least a 90-minute break between these two sessions.

TRANSITION

TRANSITION

CHANGING TEAMS FREE AGENCY PROGRAM

Changing teams can be stressful; however, we have resources to help ensure your transition is as smooth and seamless as possible:

• Moving Services:

The NFLPA has negotiated discounts with partner moving services companies. For more information, contact operations@nflpa.com

• Temporary Housing:

NFLPA has partnered with National Corporate Housing to provide fully furnished apartments with flexible leasing options to fit your temporary housing needs. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/26ejyh66

Note: The CBA provides moving, travel, and temporary housing reimbursement for those players who qualify. See CBA Article 36 for details.

FORMER PLAYER SERVICES DEPARTMENT

The NFLPA Former Player Services Department exists to assist former NFL players in their transition from the playing field into life after football, empower them to improve their quality of life, and encourage them to positively impact the communities in which they live.

For more information, contact 833-2FORMER or formerplayers@nflpa.com.

The Trust, Exos and House of Athlete continue to support players who are actively seeking to extend their careers in the NFL by offering a fully integrated system to support all aspects of peak performance training through the Free Agent Program (FAP), https://www.faprogram.com/

WHAT’S NEXT FOR ME?

The Trust

The Trust is an earned benefit available to all former NFL players with at least two credited seasons in the league. Through The Trust, eligible former players receive support across three main pillars:

• Community and Connection Opportunities: Offers opportunities for former players to engage with each other socially and to support each other in creating successful lives after football – believing that former players and members are better together.

• Health and Wellness Resources: Top-to-bottom medical evaluations, critical care benefits, and wellness services and resources are specifically customized for a player’s body and mind. With ongoing nutrition services and workout resources, The Trust is as committed to keeping their members in physical shape as they are to their mental wellness.

• Personal and Business Development: Provides career services, counseling, degree completion, and vocational training so former players can explore career interests and deepen the skills necessary to excel professionally. The Trust also offers assistance ranging from financial education to planning and management to trainings on becoming an entrepreneur, so you are empowered with control over your finances and career choices. Visit playerstrust.com or contact info@playerstrust.com

appendix

A. BENEFITS

USING NFLPLAYERBENEFITS.COM

Logging into nflplayerbenefits.com is straightforward using the NFL Player Benefits mobile app. If you need any help, contact ITteam@nflpb.org or call tel: +800.638.3186.

Once you log in you will have access to informative support resources including:

• Your financial, health, disability, and career benefits information

• New tools and resources to help you understand your retirement benefits better

• Ability to update beneficiaries/apply for benefits online

If you have questions about your benefits, reach out to our Benefits Department at nflpabenefits@nflpa.com or the Plan Office at (800) 372-2000.

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION AND HANDLING INJURIES

Workers’ compensation is a state mandated benefit for injured workers. To receive the tax-free financial and medical benefits provided by workers’ compensation, it is critical to file in a timely manner. Every state operates differently so it is important to file in the appropriate window.

If you have any questions or concerns, contact NFLPA Associate General Counsel Ned Ehrlich at Ned.Ehrlich@nflpa.com

Note: The NFLPA is not responsible for any fees due for any services provided and we do not accept responsibility for services provided.

WHAT DO I DO IF I GET INJURED?

injury to trainer

Inform your Agent and/or NFLPA Player Directors

If the injury is serious or you are not confident in your diagnosis, use your right to request a 2nd medical opinion

If surgery is required, you have the right to choose the surgeon

Request access to your electronic medical records and complete registration process. Call your Player Director for assistance.

If you are offered an in jury settlement, get a 2nd medical opinion and call your Player Director.

If you are released and unable to play football due to injury, call your Player Director.

You have 25 days from the date of your release to file an injury grievance; call your Player Director.

Finally, follow-up with your local Workers’ Comp Attorney to protect any other rights you have.

401(k) Savings Plan

The NFL Player 401(k) Plan allows eligible players to save for retirement in a tax-favored way. The contributions are invested until you take the money out. Key information:

• Beginning with your first paycheck on or after October 15th, 10% of your pre-tax salary will be contributed to your account (up to the IRS limit, which is $23,000/year for 2024).

• You can manage contribution amounts and investment options through nflplayerbenefits.com.

• Club Contributions: During your first credited season, you will receive $1,500. Active players with two or more credited seasons receive a “2-for-1 matching” club contribution with a maximum of $34,000 for 2024. For Practice Squad players, after 3 game weeks the amount of matching contribution is “2-for-1 match” up to $1,500.

• Normal distribution is at age 59 ½, but players can take money out or roll over their account at age 45 if you are not employed by a club. There is a 10% penalty for withdrawal before the age of 59 ½.

PLAYER INSURANCE PLAN

The NFL Player Insurance Plan provides health and welfare benefits to eligible players and their eligible dependents in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the NFL Management Council and the NFL Players Association.

Key information:

• The Plan provides medical, dental and vision coverage. It also provides life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment insurance (“AD&D”), and work/life resources.

• Your life, AD&D, medical, dental, vision, and work/life resources coverages are effective on the first day you are on a Game Day Roster in a Qualifying Benefit Status.

• Eligible players can access digital insurance cards at mycigna.com and download the app.

DISABILITY

The Disability Plan provides monthly disability payments to eligible players who have:

• Total and Permanent Disability, for active or former players who are unable to work due to disability.

• Line of Duty Disability, for substantial disablements caused by NFL-football activities.

• Neurocognitive Disability, for mild or moderate cognitive impairment.

To apply for disability benefits:

Go to nflplayerbenefits.com

Choose the disability benefit(s) you want to apply for.

Complete the application(s) and provide supporting documentation (a PDF of your medical records).

If required, attend a medical examination by one or more neutral physicians.

Await a decision by the disability initial claims committee.

For deadline and application information, please contact the NFLPA Benefits Department at (800) 372-2000 or at nflpabenefits@nflpa.com.

It is important to share your electronic medical records when applying for disability benefits. Refer to Appendix C for more information.

VESTING TIMELINE

PENSION

01 CREDITED SEASON

02 CREDITED SEASONS

03 CREDITED SEASONS

Accumulation Plan

The Pension plan pays lifetime monthly retirement benefits to vested players, starting at age 55. The plan also pays survivor benefits to their eligible spouses, children and, in certain cases, other beneficiaries. Your monthly payment will depend on your Credited Seasons, when you start receiving payments and which payment option you choose. Pension credits for 2018-2030 are $836/season.

TUITION REIMBURSEMENT

The NFL Player Tuition Plan assists active players in continuing their education at colleges, universities, and trade schools so you can prepare for the career you intend to pursue when you stop playing football in the NFL. The plan year lasts from 9/1/2024 through 8/31/2025.

Active Players

For active players, the plan offers:

• Tuition, fees and books: 100% – up to the maximum allowable benefit

• Up to $20,000 per plan year for the 2022–2025 plan years

Note: you must have a minimum of 1 Credited Season before the semester begins. In addition, you must be on a game roster in a qualifying status.

Practice Squad Players

For Practice Squad players, the Plan offers:

• $5,000 for reimbursable expenses in the plan year that the above season occurs.

Note: you must be on a roster for three games.

You can verify your eligibility by calling 800-635-4625, prompt 1 or email NFLTuitionAssist@Alight.com You must submit reimbursement request and supporting documentation within six months of the date the class is completed by emailing documents to NFLTuitionAssist@Alight.com

Important Tax Information

Any tuition benefit received over $5,250 in a calendar year is considered taxable income and will be reported on your W-2.

SEVERANCE PAY

Severance is paid as a lump sum post-retirement check. You will receive the payment on the quarter-end date following one full year without any NFL contract activity. After your 2nd NFL Credited Season, you receive a prescribed amount for each year you earn a CS. The amount you will receive is based on the number of Credited Seasons you have, and the years in which you played.

CAPITAL ACCUMULATION PLAN

• Eligible: 3+ Credited Seasons

• 4th Credited Season: $40,000 contribution

• Distribution: Later of 5 years after last Credited Season or age 40

• $2,500 contributions for 2nd and 3rd Credited Seasons

• 4th+ Credited Season Contribution: $48,000

ANNUITY PROGRAM

• Eligible: 3+ Credited Seasons

• 2025 Contributions: $55,000 (Tax-Qualified), $26,000 (Non-Qualified)

• Distribution:

– Tax-Qualified: Later of 5 years after last Credited Season or age 35

– Non-Qualified: Earlier of 5 years after last Credited Season or age 45

• $2,500 Tax-Qualified contributions for 2nd and 3rd Credited Seasons

• 4th Credited Season Contribution: $55,000 Tax-Qualified, $27,000 Non-Qualified

• 5th+ Credited Season Contribution: $55,000 Tax-Qualified, $27,000 Non-Qualified

B. WELLNESS

C. HOW DO I GET MY ELECTRONIC MEDICAL RECORDS?

Players have access to several behavioral health resources:

• NFLPA Referral Network: If you have Cigna insurance, you can visit non-team affiliated clinicians in our NFLPA referral network. Log onto nflpa.com/clinician to view a list of clinicians. If no clinician in your state is listed, reach out to wellness@nflpa.com and we will help you find someone. Through your Cigna behavioral health insurance, your first eight sessions will be completely free. If the provider doesn’t accept Cigna, they will bill them on your behalf.

• Cigna Behavioral Health: If you have Cigna insurance, you can also search for a clinician directly on their website: hcpdirectory.cigna.com.

• EAP Benefits that cover mental health issues are available to all players on the roster starting at the opening of training camp.

Every club’s medical staff has instant access to their players’ complete medical records via the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system. Players can access their records at any time via a secure online portal. Below are instructions on how to retrieve your records:

Enter the 6-digit 2FA* code send to the cell phone number registered with the NFLPA (*two factor authentication)

Review and acknowledge legal waiver, which will show the first time you login from a new or different device Click ‘Generate Medical Records’ on ‘My Export’

Locate account set-up email from Kitman Labs titled “Sign up to Kitman Labs”

Follow instructions in the email to activate your account Click the link to receive a new emailif it has expired

Review and acknowledge legal waiver to trigger the record export. This waiver will be required each time an export is requested

Check your medical record export progress

There are 2 options to do this: Click refresh button on export page or check email f or

If you need to update your email address or phone number, please go to nflpa.com (click Edit Profile after you sign in to update your contact info) or email emr@nflpa.com.

D. GAMBLING POLICY

All betting on NFL games is prohibited for NFL personnel. The NFL’s six key rules for players in terms of their gambling policy are:

DO NOT:

X Bet on the NFL

X Gamble at your team facility or while traveling for a road game or staying at a team hotel

X Have someone bet for you

X Share team “inside information”

X Enter a sportsbook during the NFL playing season

X Play daily fantasy football (DFS)

These rules always apply while you are employed by a club – regardless of your roster status. A violation of the league’s rules will lead to:

• Betting on your team’s game: indefinite suspension without pay for a minimum of two years.

• Betting on NFL games not involving your team: indefinite suspension without pay for a minimum of one year.

• Actual or attempted game-fixing: permanent banishment from the NFL.

• Third party or proxy betting: indefinite suspension without pay for a minimum of one year.

• Sharing inside information and tipping: indefinite suspension without pay for a minimum of one year.

• Workplace betting: betting on non-NFL sports or other games at work: suspension without pay. 1st violation is a 2-game suspension; 2nd violation is a 6-game suspension; and 3rd violation is a minimum of one year suspension.

For more information, contact your Player Director.

E. ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS AND RESOURCES

PERSONAL FINANCE

We have resources offered by reputable partners to help you find greater confidence and control over your money.

• Build a Financial Plan: Take steps toward your financial wellness by meeting with Financial Finesse for free, unbiased one-on-one financial coaching sessions. Financial Finesse can help you build a budget, learn the basics of investing, prepare you to interview financial advisors and more. Financial Finesse coaches do not sell any financial products, provide any investment advice, nor manage any assets. They are simply there to help you and your family build a plan for your future and make the most of every financial decision.

• Choose a Financial Advisor: A financial advisor provides advice or guidance to clients on how to invest and manage money as well as how to reach financial goals. Services provided can include financial planning, investing, tax and estate planning. Browse through a list of vetted individual financial advisors and financial institutions featured in Financial Advisor Registration Program when you log into nflpa.com.

• Protect Your Identity and Credit: Monitor and protect your identity and credit by signing up for Identity Guard.

CAREER DEVELOPMENT

Career Experiences

Participate in our Career Experiences to explore industries such as TV broadcasting, real estate, entrepreneurship, business, technology, nonprofits, media, collegiate athletics and more! Experiences consist of networking with industry leaders, job shadowing, and receiving guidance on how to be successful in the industry. Experiences take place in the offseason. More information will be posted at nflpa.com/careerexperiences .

AthLife Career Advising Services

Take assessments on your career interests, work on your LinkedIn profile, resume, networking strategies and more with an AthLife career coach. Sign up at nflpa.com/athlife.

Career Conversations

Are you interested in learning more from industry experts in fields you would like to explore after your career or during the off season? Connect with professionals and experts in various careers and industries for a 30-minute to 1-hour call to learn about their roles and what it takes to be successful. We have available connections with various industry leaders, including Fanatics, EA Sports, UNINTERRUPTED, University of Virginia Athletics, United Way, and many more!

CONTINUING EDUCATION

Whether you are interested in getting back on the path toward finishing your undergraduate degree or looking for a new educational journey, we have options that will meet your needs. Listed below are a few of our marquee programs.

• Harvard Crossover into Business Program (Fall Enrollment)

• Kelley School Of Business (Fall, Spring, Summer Enrollment)

Don’t see anything that connects with you yet? Come explore our tuition reimbursement eligible discounted certificate, boot-camp or short-course offerings with UMGC and 2U in areas like business, real estate, coding, cybersecurity and digital marketing and more.

PLAYER SECURITY SERVICE

Keep you, your family, and your information safe through our security services.

Automated Background Checks (Individuals and Businesses)

Conduct background investigations on all persons you do business with or employ. The service is FREE to all NFLPA members.

Note: This service is not suitable for financial investment purposes.

NFLPA Security: 202-756-9102 Contact: rbrockway@apexsgi.com

ADT

NFLPA active and former players are eligible for ADT’s Gold Concierge Service, the top tier of premium service that includes a dedicated call center for Gold Members. Players get a free home security review, 10% off all security devices and a FREE video doorbell for new customers.

NFLPA Member Portal: adt.com/NFLPA Contact: 800-724-5576 / NFLPA@adt.com

Credit Monitoring | Identity Guard

CREDITPROTECTX3SM, brought to you by the NFLPA, is a credit monitoring and identity theft protection service that gives you the tools you need to manage your most valuable assets – your credit and identity!

Jasmine Brown: 202-756-9146

Visit: https://member.identityguard.com/nflplayers

International Travel Security | US State Department Bureau of Diplomatic Security (OSAC)

The NFLPA Security department and the U.S. State Department OSAC offer this FREE service to members. International travel itineraries will be recorded with the US State department. Travelers will receive detailed country and city specific safety/crime reports, and a medical briefing report. Travelers will also receive U.S. Embassy security contact information and updated travel alerts.

NFLPA Security 202-756-9102

Tim Christine: tim.christine@nflpa.com

Passport and Visa Service | CIBT

Kerry Cosover, NFLPA Travel: kerry.cosover@nflpa.com

Visit NFLPA member Portal: https://cibtvisas.com/nflpambr

Membership Discounts

As an NFL player, you have access to several discounts. A list of deals is available here:

IMPORTANT DATES

OCT 15, 2024

Deadline for any player claiming 2024 Injury Protection benefit to file a grievance.

MID-OCT 2024

PAIR Program

NOV 05, 2024

Trade Deadline

MAR 04, 2025

Franchise

Tag Deadline

MAR 10, 2025

Negotiation Period Opens

MAR 12, 2025

Trading Period Opens and 2025 League Year and Free Agency begins (4:00pm ET)

FEB 2024

Super Bowl Week Community MVP Day NFLPA VIP Party at the Super Bowl

APR 07, 2025

Any club with a new Head Coach may begin its offseason workout program

APR 18, 2025

Last day of Restricted Free Agent Signing Period

PLAYERS IN THE COMMUNITY

Youth Camp Assistance

We want to help with your next youth football camp or community event. Assistance can include:

• Discounted and/or free products

• Promotion through NFLPA digital and social channels

• Video and content opportunities

• Additional NFLPA staff volunteers

Email PlayerCamps@nflpa.com with any questions

Community MVP

Each week during the regular season, the NFLPA #CommunityMVP program honors one player who has made a positive impact in his hometown or team city. For being named Community MVP, the NFLPA will make a $10,000 donation to the player’s foundation or charity of choice so that he can continue to make a difference. For more information, visit nflpa.com/community-mvp.

CORE: CHAMPIONING OPPORTUNITIES, RESOURCES + ENGAGEMENT

In 2020, the NFLPA Board of Reps established the “Ladies Council” (now known as CORE) to enhance awareness and utilization of all programs, benefits, and resources for player spouses, significant others, and/or family members. Key programs include:

• NFL Player Insurance Healthy Babies Program which offers valuable incentives and resources to help you and your partner prepare for parenthood.

• The NFL Assistance Program which provides spouses with access to work/life resources in addition to the full Player Insurance Plan.

For more information, contact core@nflpa.com

APR 21, 2025

All other clubs may begin offseason workout programs

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