NFL lockout ends as former CSU DE Nading looks at big transition

As Indianapolis center Jeff Saturday and New England Patriot owner Robert Kraft embraced on top of the steps outside of the players association’s office in Washington, D.C. on Monday, it marked an emotional end to the league’s protracted labor dispute.

Moments earlier, Saturday addressed the media, telling them of the heroic efforts of Kraft’s recently-deceased wife in bringing the NFL lockout to a close “A special thanks to Myra Kraft, who even in her weakest moment allowed Mr. Kraft to come and fight this out and without him, this deal does not get done” Saturday said “He is a man who helped us save football.”

While the NFL wrapped up its deal, many players were getting ready to report to training camp, which for many, started just days after the deal was signed. In an exclusive interview with Dollars and Sports, Texans outside linebacker, and CSU graduate Jesse Nading said players were doing everything they could to deal with the quick transitions that they’d be facing. “I know that all of my teammates have been working very hard and the group of 30-50 NFL guys I have been working out with in Denver have been working hard also.”

Nading’s situation will only increase in complexity moving into 2011, with new defensive coordinator Wade Phillips bringing in a defensive front requiring Jesse to move from defensive end to outside linebacker. “The transition from a 4-3 to a 3-4 is one I am very excited for. While there is a big difference in responsibilities, I have always felt comfortable dropping into coverage and standing up,” Nading said. “The biggest challenge for me as with everyone will be learning the new scheme in a much shorter window that we normally would have.”

Nading then said he began following the lockout, but “as it wore on I found that keeping up with the day to day news was exhausting.”

When details of the lockout were finalized, one of the most popular items was the length of the agreement – 10 years, with no opt-out clause for either side.

“Having a 10-year agreement is extraordinarily great for our game, but most importantly our fans. I think this agreement is going to make our game better.” Roger Goodell said in declaring labor peace for the next decade.

As for Nading, he’s fully aware that his future lies in his own hands “My situation will be the same as it has always been, come in, learn the system and make plays to earn a spot on the team.”

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