Two Lions players expect NFL lockout

Monday, February 14 2011

After one bargaining session between the NFL and its players union was cut short and another cancelled this week, two Lions from last season said they believe a lockout is coming next month but that the season can be saved.
"I was telling my dad (the other day), I would be shocked if we don't play football next year," kicker Dave Rayner said. "I mean, I'd be shocked. I don't think they'll get everything done by March 3 or even by the time we start off-season workouts, but I would hope we would get it done in the next month or two. I just think there would be so much of a loss for everybody if we don't play."

The NFL's labor agreement expires at 12:01 a.m. March 4, and owners are expected to lock out players -- and delay the start of free agency -- without a new deal.

Rayner, who likely will be an unrestricted free agent if he doesn't re-sign with the Lions in the next three weeks, said the players association has been keeping its members updated on negotiations with regular e-mails.

"I couldn't tell you which side is winning or losing," Rayner said. "But I know that I speak for a lot of the guys: We just want to play."

Cornerback Eric King, released by the Lions along with offensive guard Trevor Canfield on Thursday, said he believes a deal "will get done before the season," but after a lockout.

"I don't think it'll be something that'll be done within the upcoming months as far as March or April," King said. "I think we're far enough apart whereas something has to be worked out, and it will take a little bit of time. Both sides are still trying to figure out what they want and how they want it in. It'll take some time to get it worked out, but I'm pretty confident there'll still be football in 2011." This article was written by Dave Birkett and appeared in the Detroit Free Press.