NFL teams are taking this “no contact with players” thing seriously.
One agent who represents a Carolina Panthers coach was told that contact with a player would be reason for firing with cause, according to Darin Gantt of the Charlotte Observer.
Barring any illegal contact, however, the Panthers are being rather lockout friendly to their employees. No layoffs or furloughs are planned and there’s a “sense of optimism” among employees things will remain business as usual until the Fall.
Contracts signed by new coaches did not contain any language that cuts their pay in the event of a lockout. Many believe that owner Jerry Richardson cut payroll in 2010 in part to protect his employees this year.