The MRSA infection that hit the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' facility last month is under an official review that could result in the players' union filing an "Article 50" violation under the collective bargaining agreement, seeking financial damages against the team if there is any evidence of negligence or cover-up.
MRSA is a powerful bacteria resistant to penicillin-type treatment. The union is investigating whether the Buccaneers communicated the problem to the players in a timely fashion, and the team's medical personnel have delivered their files and report to union.
Tampa Bay general manager Mark Dominik confirmed the outbreak at the Bucs' facility last month.
"Our primary concern is always the health and safety of our players and staff," he said. "Our players were informed of the situation and we sought the advice of experts, including the NFL's medical advisor, who provided counsel and approved of our comprehensive measures including the treatment of our practice facility."
The Bucs are trying to cut kicker Lawrence Tynes, who was hospitalized with the MRSA infection, offering a financial settlement and placing him on the non-football injury list rather than injured reserve.
But the union is fighting that move because Tynes would not get his full salary and benefits or another season toward his pension. The non-football injury designation also would reduce the amount of severance the Bucs would have to pay Tynes.
Buccaneers offensive lineman Carl Nicks, a Pro Bowl guard, also is missing Sunday's game against the New York Jets because of a MRSA infection.
