The Jets will start the third and final phase of their offseason program this week. These are called organized team activities (OTAs).
What is the offseason program?
The NFL players and owners agreed to allow players to go to the team facility for a set number of workouts/practices over the course of the offseason.
What sets OTAs apart from the rest of the offseason program?
OTAs are considered the third phase of the offseason program. In phase one, players can take part in strength, conditioning, and rehab activities. In phase two, players can take part in a limited number of drills. In this
phase, things ramp up a bit. Teams can conduct 7 on 7, 9 on 7, and 11 on 11 drills as part of practices. These workouts are not padded, and no contact is allowed.
Is attendance mandatory?
For the most part the answer is no. During the third phase, teams do hold a three day minicamp. This is the only stage of the offseason program players are required to attend. A player can be fined for skipping that minicamp.
The rest of the OTA period (and offseason program) is option. A player cannot be disciplined for skipping it.
Many players attend all OTAs. Some players will attend certain days of OTAs and skip others. Others skip the entire thing.
While teams cannot require players to attend, they can incentivize their players to participate in the offseason program. When a contract is signed, you might hear that the deal includes “workout bonuses.” Normally these are incentives the player will be paid for attending the offseason program.
Is what happens in the offseason program important?
Well, look, I’m not going to sit here and tell you what happens is completely irrelevant. These practices are a chance for developing players to sharpen their skills. It is also a chance for coaches to work with players.
When I have had the opportunity to interview players on this topic, one thing I have heard over and over is that the biggest benefit is for players trying to establish themselves in the league. There is less value for proven veterans who know how to prepare for the upcoming season.
But think about everything you just read above. These are drills without pads and contact. Players also aren’t required to attend.
What happens over the next few weeks will matter to an extent in preparation for the season, but any outlet that is providing breathless coverage of the big “winners and losers” or “takeaways” from OTAs probably would be best served toning things down a bit.
