They call it a “CBA Blueprint.” Michael calls it a death certificate. Athletes.org released a 38-page Collective Bargaining Agreement Framework dated Dec. 8, 2025, positioned as a path away from the fragmented NIL era toward standardized compensation and governance.

In this special mid-week podcast, Lee and Michael break down what’s actually inside:

• The portal window described as “college athletics’ version of free agency”

• A proposed non-employee collective bargaining concept

• Group licensing power routed through Athletes Inc.

• Pro-style budget/compliance concepts including a proposed 89% direct spending rule

• Removal of the CSC FMV system