NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell sent a letter to fans explaining the league’s plans to play during the coronavirus pandemic.
As veterans begin performing at training camps this week, Goodell watched Monday as COVID-19 “has turned the world upside down.”
“COVID-19 will continue to present a great challenge for almost all areas of American life. Soccer is no exception, “wrote Goodell.
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“Every step of the way, our focus has been on the safety of players, coaches, staff, fans and our communities. Our planning has followed the leadership of medical experts and public health officials, including CDC, the White House Task Force, governors, and state health officials. As we develop our 2020 playbook for the return of soccer, safety continues to be our first priority; that commitment will continue to be paramount as the players return to the field. “
The league and the players’ union agreed on a plan last Friday, after all preseason games were canceled. Goodell closed the team’s facilities in late March and only cautiously reopened this summer.
“The NFL in 2020 will not look like other years,” added Goodell. “Players and coaches will be screened regularly for the virus, even every day for a while. The preseason games have been canceled. Everyone in the team environment must follow rigorous health and safety protocols to keep themselves and others safe. When there is a positive test result, strict standards will be enforced to isolate and care for that individual and to contain the virus before it spreads.
“Even the sideline will look different. And, state and local health guidelines will help determine if fans will attend the games. These adjustments are necessary to reduce the risk for all involved. “
Goodell emphasized the need for adaptability at all levels, citing how a virtual draft was produced in April. The 32 teams also held remote training sessions out of season.
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The NFL has chosen not to create a bubble environment, something the NHL, NBA, WNBA and MLS have done. With Major League Baseball experiencing difficulties in its first weekend of play with a plan similar to that of the NFL, there is additional anxiety about what the Goodell league has planned.
“Training camps are starting across the country this week, and before we know it, the NFL season will be here,” he wrote. “This is always the most optimistic time of year for our fans and for all 32 teams. In a year that has been extraordinarily difficult for our country and the world, we hope that the energy of this moment will provide the optimism that we so badly need. “
