CINCINNATI - As you've probably heard by now, the NFL lockout is over.
For now, anyway.
The NFL has appealed Monday's ruling by U.S. District Judge Susan Richard Nelson that states the league is back open for business. It's not that simple as rules would have to be set before free agency could begin, but several sources report that players will be welcomed if they report to their team's training facility on Tuesday.
Whether they'll actually be allowed to work out or talk with coaches remains to be seen.
It's been a strange offseason, certainly, and the timing of Monday's ruling is especially interesting with the NFL Draft set to begin Thursday night. The players have won the first battle, but there's no reason to believe the two sides are close on a new collective bargaining agreement.
The NFL's appeal is expected to be heard soon. Stay tuned.
