While there have not been formal talks, Alliance of American Football co-founder and head of football Bill Polian says that NFL teams have “bandied about” the notion of practice squad players playing for AAF teams while under NFL contracts.
“Those discussions will continue but whether they bear fruit remains to be seen,” Polian said via Kevin Allen of USA TODAY. “There are lots of procedural hurdles that have to be crossed before you could make that happen.”
Texans coach Bill O’Brien has stated before that he hopes the new collective bargaining agreement will allow for more time for younger players to spend time in the building. Count O’Brien as one of the coaches who would be in favor of loaning players to AAF teams, should such a proposition get formally requested.
The spitballing is that the Texans could assign their No. 3 quarterback — Stephen Morris from last preseason, let’s say — and other players at the bottom of the roster — running back Buddy Howell, receiver Jester Weah — to get more playing time under proven coaches such as Mike Martz, Mike Singletary, and Steve Spurrier.
“As a broadcaster for almost 20 years, and talking to coaches, one of the things they have been frustrated with on this latest CBA is the reduction of meeting time and practice time,” said San Antonio Commanders general manager Daryl Johnston. “They just don’t think the guys are getting enough repetition.”
The question is whether or not such a formal agreement can be worked out by the time of the AAF’s second season. If they can, then it should reduce the anxiety of bottom-roster dwellers who aren’t getting enough reps and playing time.
