The Chicago Bears players are expected to hold a vote today, to decertify the players union. With NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell in Chicago today for the final owners meeting before the current collective bargaing agreement runs out, the move is being viewed by some, as a 'message' to the league
With anticapation of a lockout beginning at the end of the current agreement, in March, several teams have already voted to decertify the union. Theoretically, this would prevent the owners from negotiating salary caps and benefits, among other issues. It's a move designed to allow players to litigate under antitrust laws rather than labor laws, in the event of a lockout.
While nothing is certain, both sides appear to be positioning themselves for the eventuality of a long, protracted legal battle.
There's more information on this at Chicago Breaking Sports.