A three-person appeals panel officially rejected the NFL Players Association's challenge regarding team collusion during 2022 quarterback contract talks. The panel upheld arbitrator Christopher Droney’s January 2025 ruling, concluding there lacked sufficient proof that owners actively participated in any coordinated effort. This decision closes a significant chapter in the players' grievance process.

The NFLPA argued teams violated the CBA after Deshaun Watson secured his record, fully guaranteed contract with the Browns. The dispute centered on whether Watson’s deal unfairly influenced negotiations for Kyler Murray, Lamar Jackson, and Russell Wilson, none of whom subsequently received similar fully guaranteed terms. The panel acknowledged the league invited participation in what it deemed an "improper" collusion effort.

Despite finding the NFL's invitation improper, the panel could not confirm team participation in the alleged scheme against the players' interests. This outcome confirms the status quo regarding quarterback compensation structure post-Watson's deal. Earlier reports suggested the NFL and senior NFLPA leaders agreed to a confidentiality pact regarding the arbitration result, keeping it from the broader player base.