WASHINGTON — Those optimistic about the NFL's labor talks with the players' union will point to the sides' decision to push back the bargaining deadline by a week and think, as Commissioner Roger Goodell put it:

"The fact that we're continuing this dialogue is a positive sign."

And those who are pessimistic about where this all eventually is headed will recognize that, as the league's lead negotiator Jeff Pash described it:

"We've got very serious issues. We've got significant differences."

View Comments

After taking the weekend to assess their positions, the sides will resume talks in front of a federal mediator Monday — and then will have until the end of Friday to reach a new CBA, thanks to two extensions.

Join the Conversation
Looking for comments?
Find comments in their new home! Click the buttons at the top or within the article to view them — or use the button below for quick access.