Is it just me, or does it seem the NFLPA has the owners backed into a corner?

No I don't think so. Each player has to sue separately to get out of their contracts, besides Manning, Brady, and Brees no other stars have mentioned they would do it. A lot of these players have blown their money and need their current contracts to support their lifestyles. Besides with no union the teams can hire who ever they want and pay them whatever they want. Sure a few guys may leave a few teams, but if the owners stick together and decide not to hire these players then they will have the upper hand.