NFLPA representatives have voted to send a new deal already approved by the league's owners that includes a 17-game season to the full union membership.

A simple majority of some 2,000 players must accept the agreement for it to go into effect this year.

The vote to send the proposal to the membership was close, 17-14 with one abstention.

There was no immediate word of when that vote would occur, though it likely will be weeks, as the union attorneys will now go to work on a term sheet on the deal.

The new CBA calls for a 17-game regular season, which is expected to begin in 2021; more roster spots; a shortened preseason; a higher percentage of revenue for players; and upgraded pensions for former players. The owners also agreed to eliminate the $250,000 cap on earnings for players when they get the extra game check for the 17-game season.