The lockout is nearing an end so says football superstar quarterback Drew Brees.

Brees told XX Sports Radio in San Diego that the NFL Players Union and owners are nearing an agreement. He said negotiations are at the point where there only a few more details that need to be ironed out.

Obviously there's a big sense of urgency, especially in the next week with the owners' meeting on July 21. I think we're all optimistic and hoping we can finalize a deal for that time, Brees said.

Brees is one of the biggest stars in the NFL and influential. He was named as one of the plaintiffs in the players' antitrust lawsuit and a member of the NFLPA Executive Committee. He is considered to be one of the most knowledgeable players concerning the labor strife.

The New Orleans Saint quarterback and former Superbowl MVP said the players have made concessions including a significant setback as far as overall revenue. He also said the issue of the Top 15 NFL draft picks was a huge one. He said any savings from those contracts should go to improving player pensions and healthcare for retired players.

If their salaries are cut, where does that money go? Our standpoint is if that money is taken away from the rookies, it needs to go to the veteran players, Brees said. Proven veterans as well as retired players.

In a statement, Brees along with New England Patriots Quarterback Tom Brady and Indianapolis Colts Quarterback Peyton Manning expressed their desire to get a deal done.

We believe the overall proposal made by the players is fair for both sides and it is time to get this deal done, they said. This is the time of year we as players turn our attention to the game on the field. We hope the owners feel the same way.

The 21st is a huge day. If a deal can be cut by then, the regular NFL season will likely go on as planned. If not then preseason games and eventually regular season games may be impacted. Each preseason game would amount to $384 million in losses for the players and $416 million in losses for the owners.

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