For most people across the NFL, the lockout was seen as a negative. Less offseason training meant less time to prepare. The potential of games being cancelled would have meant huge revenue losses for teams, television stations, and local businesses. For Terrell Suggs, however, the lockout was a vacation. In fact, Suggs believes the lockout is partially responsible for Baltimore’s successful season.
“Last year, to be totally honest with you, I had the time of my life during the lockout and wasn’t in a hurry to get back to work,” Suggs said during an interview with WHB in Kansas City on Thursday. “I think that’s why, in total, I ended up having the season that I did. A lot of guys ended up pushing themselves too hard and ended up getting hurt trying to get ready for minicamps and OTAs. Fortunately we didn’t have that burden on our shoulders and that’s why I think I had a great year.”
With the way the new CBA is written, players will not be required to work as hard next season with two-a-day practices having been eliminated. During the season, we heard players blame the lockout for their injuries and admit they failed to remain in shape during the football hiatus. Larry Fitzgerald’s father even alluded to the lockout when he ripped Early Doucet, saying the Cardinals receiver did not work hard enough because of it.
As you can see, Suggs’ opinion is one that is not shared by many. I’m sure plenty of players enjoyed themselves during the extended offseason, but there was more harm than good caused by the lockout. Something tells me Suggs doesn’t mind that his opinion puts him in the minority.
