The 32 owners, meeting in Atlanta, voted overwhelmingly to support a new deal that would end their bitter labor dispute with the players and ensure the next season goes ahead.

But the lockout, which has been in place for four months after talks between the sides collapsed, remained in place, at least until the players agree to support the proposal. They were due to meet later on Thursday to discuss the issue.

“Hopefully we can all work quickly, expeditiously and get this agreement done,” NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said at a press conference. “It is time to get back to football. That is what everybody here wants to do.”