NFLPA decertification vote could ensure NFL football in 2011
"Put simply, if the NFLPA decertifies, the league would then be required to promulgate player acquisition and retention rules on an across-the-board basis. The union then would sue the league, arguing that the imposition of standard rules regarding player acquisition and retention among 32 different businesses constitutes a violation of antitrust laws." In 1987, the NFLPA did this and Reggie White threatened a class action lawsuit against the league. Eventually this led to the previous collective bargaining agreement with free agency and the salary cap.