The National Football League (NFL) and Players Association agreed on Friday to have training camps open on schedule amidst the coronavirus pandemic.
League Commissioner Roger Goodell gave an announcement saying legitimate protocol would be followed to guarantee team safety and to forestall any additionally spread of COVID-19.
“The NFL clubs and the NFL Players Association approved an agreement that broadly resolves all outstanding issues relating to the opening of training camps and start of the 2020 season. Training camps will begin as scheduled,” the statement began.
“We have worked collaboratively to develop a comprehensive set of protocols designed to minimize risk for fans, players, and club and league personnel,” Goodell continued. “These plans have been guided by the medical directors of the NFL and the NFLPA and have been reviewed and endorsed by independent medical and public health experts, including the CDC, and many state and local public health officials.”
He added, “The season will undoubtedly present new and additional challenges, but we are committed to playing a safe and complete 2020 season, culminating with the Super Bowl.”
The Player’s Association voted 29-3 to open training camps on time, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport announced.
This news comes only three days after the league decided to scrap its preseason plan totally, following a request from the player’s union. Union leaders apparently informed players regarding the preseason decision during a Tuesday night conference call.
All competitors who have tested negative for the virus will have their physicals led at team facilities toward the beginning of August, as per CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones.
The league plans to begin the regular season on time starting September 10 with a matchup between the Texans and Chiefs.
