NFL sends memo to teams after Ja’Wuan James injury

The NFL has sent a memo cautioning players working out on their own just one day after Broncos right tackle Ja’Wuan James suffered a season-ending Achilles injury outside of the team facility.

NFL sent this memo to teams today regarding injuries sustained away from team facilities: pic.twitter.com/oj1WieNrnc

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 5, 2021

The memo sent to all 32 teams highlighted that any injury sustained outside a team facility are considered “non-football injuries” and therefore clubs have no contractual obligations to provide salary continuation during the year.

“Injuries sustained by a player while working out at a club facility or as specifically authorized by his club are considered football-related injuries … and are entitled to significant protections,” the NFL said in a memo.

James is one of many NFL players leaguewide who are boycotting voluntary offseason work at team facilities this spring.

However, James’ $10 million salary for 2021 is in jeopardy because the injury occurred off-site. Had James gotten hurt at the team’s facilities, his salary would have been covered.

The offseason program is voluntary, per the NFL Collective Bargaining Agreement. However, teams often aim for full roster attendance for the programs.