The United States Football League (USFL) and United Steelworkers announced a new three-year collective bargaining agreement on Thursday as reported by Sportico’s Eric Jackson. The USFL confirmed the news on their Twitter account.
Under the new collective bargaining agreement, players’ salaries will increase from $4,500 to $5,350 per week. The XFL’s play scale is $5,000 plus incentives and postseason bonuses. As part of the new agreement, players will no longer get weekly performance bonuses.
In addition, players will receive $150 towards their 401K, along with an annual opt-out option that provides inactive players $2,500 per week, which is more than the XFL’s $1,500 for inactive players on gameday rosters.
One of the major sticking points in this new agreement is the players will receive a $400 per week housing stipend. The players currently must pay for their housing and hotel expenses once training camp concludes.
The United Football Players Association released a statement after the new CBA agreement. “Players Congratulations! We are excited to announce that we have reached a tentative agreement on a new CBA with the USFL for the 2023 season. The significant points of the deal are increases in salaries, improved housing accommodations, and medical, amongst other things. We will update everyone via email with the next steps that will be taken to finalize the process moving forward.”
The USFL kicks off the 2023 season on Saturday, April 15th. The North Division features the defending North Division champion Philadelphia Stars, New Jersey Generals, Pittsburgh Maulers, and the Michigan Panthers. The South Division features the 2022 USFL Champion Birmingham Stallions, Memphis Showboats, New Orleans Breakers, and the Houston Gamblers.
