NFL: Planning For A Development League

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Jan 17, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker James Harrison (92) walks off the field after a loss against the Denver Broncos during the third quarter of the AFC Divisional round playoff game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 17, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker James Harrison (92) walks off the field after a loss against the Denver Broncos during the third quarter of the AFC Divisional round playoff game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /

What would their salaries be? 

Each player’s’ salaries would be the same as if they were signed on a NFL team. The players are essentially being signed by the NFL team but designated to play in the development league. For example, if a 4-year veteran signs a 1-year/800k dollar contract and he is designated to the D-league then he will continue to be paid as his contract says.

If a player signs a contract with one team and is offered a better one from a team within their division then that player can decide whether or not he wants to sign.

Who will be the coaches? 

A developmental league can not only help the focus on the training of players but also other personnel members like coaches, scouts, referees, etc. The league may also serve as a season-long experimental lab for new officiating rules and new technology to be placed.

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Again, this is a DEVELOPMENT league. Everything that goes will be evaluated by many higher-power officials for future use. Many of the coaches may be assistants who urge for a chance just like the players. Offensive coordinators, Defensive coordinators, position-based coaches, new, and old, all would be given a chance to show that they too deserve a chance to be in the league. 

When will this take place?

Since many players would be cut by the end of week 4 of the pre-season then the development league would begin week 1 of the regular season for the NFL to end of week 10 of the regular NFL season with two weeks of an bye week.