Advertisement

Updated April 16th, 2020 at 13:32 IST

NFL discussing playing in empty stadiums, shorter format for 2020 season: Reports

The NFL officials are reportedly discussing a shorter revamped format for the 2020 season. The upcoming season could start with no fans in the stadiums.

Reported by: Sujay Chakraborty
NFL
| Image:self
Advertisement

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic in the United States has meant that premier sports leagues in the country are left contemplating the futures of their current seasons. Despite not being affected like the other sports leagues - namely the NBA and MLB - NFL officials are reportedly discussing how to move forward with the 2020 NFL schedule. 

Also Read | NFL Player With Coronavirus: Brian Allen Coronavirus Test Report 'positive', First NFL Player To Contract COVID-19

NFL 2020 update: NFL shorter format being discussed by officials

According to reports in the US, the current lockdown due to COVID-19 could force some major changes to the 2020 season. The Washington Post reports that NFL officials are constantly discussing if the upcoming season should be delayed or started as scheduled. It is believed that the hierarchy is considering closing the stadiums for the fans at the beginning of the season. Another plan on the table is allowing a certain percentage of fans to be allowed in the stadium during the opening stages. The league executives are reportedly also discussing a shorter format for the upcoming season. 

Also Read | NFL 2020 Update: Executives And NFLPA Vote To Approve Virtual Off-season Program, NFL Shorter Format To be Deployed?

NFL shorter format and NFL empty stadiums on the table for executives

According to an NFL statement released by The Washington Post, the league owners are continuing to plan for the 2020 season and are also prepared to make adjustments as deemed necessary by the authorities and the executives. The statement read, 'We have said, we are committed to protecting the health of our fans, players, club and league personnel, and communities. We look forward to the 2020 NFL season, and our guidelines and decisions will be guided by the latest advice from medical and public health officials, as well as current and future government regulations.'

Also Read | NFL 2020 Update: 30 NFL Draft Hopefuls Showed Off Skills At A Virtual Pro Day

NFL 2020 Update

Earlier this week, US President Donald Trump announced that he enlisted NFL commissioner Roger Goodell along with the commissioners of NBA and MLB and other prominent sports leaders into his advisory panel. Trump reportedly believes restarting sports in the country will be key for the nation's 'sleeping economy' amid the pandemic.

NFL has already been forced to make major changes to its off-season programs due to the lockdown. The 2020 NFL Draft was moved out of Las Vegas and shifted to a completely virtual format. Even the off-season program for the 32 teams will be conducted virtually until the club facilities remain closed. The NFL's schedule for the 2020 regular season is expected to be released around mid-May, which will reportedly factor in games being lost by a potential delayed start. 

Also Read | Tom Brady Becomes First QB In NFL History To Make Two Separate All-Decade Teams

Advertisement

Published April 16th, 2020 at 13:32 IST

Your Voice. Now Direct.

Send us your views, we’ll publish them. This section is moderated.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Trending Quicks

Taliban lash, detain Afghan girls for violating dress code
a few seconds ago
Christopher, Wife Emma To Get British Knighthood And Damehood
5 minutes ago
The tax notice sent to the Congress party pertains to the assessment years 2017 to 2021.
13 minutes ago
Tie-dye printed shirts
17 minutes ago
A case has been registered against former minister and BRS working president KTR in Hanmakonda
18 minutes ago
Ramban Accident
29 minutes ago
Bitcoin
31 minutes ago
Lok Sabha Elections 2024 LIVE
33 minutes ago
Faridabad Fire: Massive Blaze Engulfs Factory in Bhankri Village, Panic Grips Locality
43 minutes ago
Riyan Parag
44 minutes ago
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Whatsapp logo