The NFL has rules in place that prevent teams from having any type of meetings with their players during the so called "dead period." The Cowboys have ignored this rule and have been fined by Roger Goodell as a result.
Several Dallas Cowboys players have mentioned getting together with new defensive coordinator Rob Ryan to get a jump-start on his system. That apparently is a violation of NFL rules and put the Cowboys among of a group of five teams that have been fined by commissioner Roger Goodell for having contact with players during a "dead'' period.
The other teams suspected are Miami, Cleveland & San Francisco all teams that have new coaches or coordinators. I think more than anything it underscores what an awful situation these coaches are facing. They've got to teach new players new systems and they're not going to be able to do that without being able to start now. Frankly, I can understand why they're breaking the rules. It might even be worth the fine.
It also underscores that for this year, the Eagles' organizational consistency is a major strength. They do have a new coordinator, but the system isn't going to fundamentally change.
The NFL released a statement on the rules after the jump.
"There have been rules in place for years that govern what is permissible prior to the start of the off-season program. ... Before the offseason program begins, players are permitted to use the Club's facilities on a voluntary basis subject to the following rules:
(i) such players may not receive per diem payments or workout bonuses of any kind and may not be paid or reimbursed expenses for travel, board or lodging during this period;
(ii) such players are not permitted to participate in organized workouts, practices or meetings of any kind;
(iii) the Club's strength and conditioning coaches may not direct such players' individual workouts, but may supervise use of the weight room to prevent injury, correct misuse of equipment, etc.;
(iv) such players may not be directed or supervised by position coaches during this period.''