Union demands that NFL open its books

Talks aimed at producing a new NFL collective-bargaining agreement continued for more than nine hours Tuesday at a federal mediator's office in Washington, with continued haggling by the Players Association that the league isn't providing sufficient financial information to move the sides closer together.

The NFLPA insists that the league open its books and reveal all financial data to show the union that it needs givebacks from the players to continue an upward trend in the NFL's overall revenues.

The league has asked for an additional $1 billion to be exempt from revenue sharing with the union, although that figure has decreased to around $750 million during talks.

The NFLPA confirmed yesterday it has recently retained the services of an unnamed international investment bank in the event that the league turns over relevant financial data that the union is seeking.

The NFL's lead labor negotiator, Jeff Pash, said the bank has not contacted the league.

The sides remain far apart on an agreement, meaning Friday's extended deadline for the CBA expiration draws ever closer with no imminent resolution. If there is no deal before 5 p.m. Friday, the NFLPA has threatened to decertify and have individual players file antitrust legislation against the league.

The NFL has threatened a lockout, which could imperil the start of the season. A protracted work stoppage could threaten the entire season, although it is expected that a new CBA would be reached in time to play most of the games.

The talks are scheduled to resume Wednesday.