Offensive lineman Ja’Wuan James has filed a grievance against the Broncos (via PFT). The offensive lineman is seeking to recover $10MM of his 2021 salary, plus $5MM in 2022 salary.
James’ 2021 pay was guaranteed for skill and injury while $5MM of his ’22 salary was guaranteed for injury. The Broncos say they owe James nothing, because his workout injury happened outside of the team facility. James, meanwhile, contends that he was working out in a fashion that was “specifically authorized” by the club. Furthermore, he was working out with other Broncos teammates. And, on top of all of that, James claims that the Broncos’ facilities were not in compliance with Colorado’s COVID-19 safety guidelines.
In the filing, James’ attorneys noted a May 5 NFL memo which noted that workout injuries outside of facilities “specifically or as specifically authorized by his club are considered ‘football-related injuries.’” The Broncos placed James on the reserve/non-football injury list two days later. And, on May 14, the Broncos cut James.
In response, the Broncos will likely argue that his non-facility workout was strictly voluntary. And, as a result, they’re not responsible.
Good luck on that dude. Might want to read those memos that the league sends out. You also have an agent and players association who I am sure had made you aware of said policy. It sucks that you got hurt, but you can’t blame someone else when you’re the one who broke the rules
If one of the guys that had the 40 yard dash a few weeks back, tore a muscle in the race would they be allowed to say they were training as well, not likely.
File a grievance against your union. They (and you as well, James) agreed to the terms in the last CBA.
Ok so if he doesn’t work out and shows up to otas out of shape they fine him. This is not a good look. Hamilton and James deserved better. It’s Covid crazy like feeling more comfortable in a workout environment that you control. He works on his body to do his job. They weasled their way out of some significant money. Bet you new CBA covers this better going forward.
Bet you it doesn’t. All standard sport insurance policies define sanctioned or approved activities to avoid scenarios where athletes do their own thing and try and get a payout That is the risk limiting factor
If he has proof this was approved or authorized by the team he should be fine. But training as you would have with the team and with teammates does not mean it was approved training.
Smart man would have dragged his ass into the facility and fell down a flight of stairs.