INDIANAPOLIS – The NFL Players Association has released its annual team-by-team report cards, evaluating players’ working conditions and environments.
The top five teams in overall grades are the Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, Green Bay Packers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Jacksonville Jaguars.
Conversely, the Washington Commanders received the lowest grades for the second year in a row, with the Kansas City Chiefs, the reigning Super Bowl champions, ranking 31st overall. The Los Angeles Chargers, New England Patriots, and Pittsburgh Steelers round out the bottom five.
Teams were graded on various categories such as training room, training staff, weight room, strength coaches, team travel, head coach, and ownership. Owners were evaluated based on their willingness to invest in team facilities.
The data for the survey was collected between August and November of the 2023 season, with 1,750 players participating, a significant increase from the previous year. Approximately 77% of NFL players took part in the survey, providing their assessments which were then tallied and ranked.
The Player Team Report Cards are back. Last year, the report cards led to players feeling more informed about their workplace & this year several new categories were added including Head Coach, Owner + Dietician/Nutritionist.
Take a look here: https://t.co/RV0ZNDNb2h. pic.twitter.com/vfEv6A7d2s— NFLPA (@NFLPA) February 28, 2024
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers received a low grade in team travel due to the requirement for players with less than four seasons and non-starters to have roommates on road trips, with an additional charge of $1,750 per player for a single room.
The Chiefs’ low grades stemmed from players’ disappointment over unfulfilled promises to upgrade the outdated locker room. Despite replacing some seating, ownership was unable to make significant improvements due to the extended season resulting from their Super Bowl victory in 2022.
In terms of head-coaching grades, the Chiefs shared the first position with the Detroit Lions and Vikings. Coaches like Andy Reid, Dan Campbell, and Kevin O’Connell received high marks, while Josh McDaniels, who was fired by the Las Vegas Raiders, received the lowest grade.
NFLPA President J.C. Tretter emphasized the goal of improving working conditions for players by highlighting positive aspects and areas that require enhancement.
The report cards aim to create accountability and motivate team leadership to provide better facilities, nutrition, medical care, and accommodations for players and their families.
The survey did not show a direct link between team performance and the grades obtained. Several new categories, including ownership, head coach, nutritionists, and dietitians, were added this year.
The report highlighted improvements made by some teams, such as the Jaguars’ new headquarters and changes in ownership with the Commanders. Despite progress, further enhancements are needed to ensure optimal player care and satisfaction.
Conversations between the NFLPA and the league have focused on ensuring adequate resources and staffing in training rooms to provide appropriate care for injuries. The NFL expressed interest in reviewing the union’s findings and collaborating on further research.
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(Photo: Michael Reaves / Getty Images)