Jim Trotter, who has been closely covering the NFL collective bargaining negotiations, just released some interesting news on Sports Illustrated's website regarding the labor talks. In particular, the possibility of an extended season. 

Once thought a strong possibility, it's looking like an 18-game season is totally off the table. NFLPA executive director DeMaurice Smith said this:

"First of all, the league has never presented a formal proposal for 18 games," he told SI.com. "But more importantly, it's something that our players don't want. Eighteen games is not in the best interest of our players' safety, so we're not doing it."

This should come as good news to those fans who staunchly opposed a longer season and considered it the ruining of the National Football League. 

Earlier today, the two sides agreed on a rookie wage scale. 

Two days remaining until the deadline...