Despite the ongoing spread of COVID-19 and the complete removal of preseason games, football is on its way back as training camps are opening across the country. On Monday, National Football League commissioner Roger Goodell wrote an open letter for NFL fans to detail various changes and plans for the upcoming season.
“Adaptability and flexibility will be needed for the foreseeable future,” Goodell wrote. “After all, even the best game plan changes as new challenges arise. This year’s NFL Draft is a good example that embracing change can still deliver the fun and excitement we all crave…While this year will forever be defined by a heartbreaking global pandemic and a transformative social justice movement, I am reminded of the tenacious, resilient spirit of our country, the NFL community, and you, the greatest fans in the world. Thank you for your continued support.”
Some of the upcoming action fans can expect to see include daily testing for players and coaches, strict protocols in the event a player or coach does contract coronavirus, and fans going to games in states permitting attendance must wear a mask and practice social distancing. Even though he acknowledged the season will be different and difficult for everyone, Goodell thanked fans for their commitment while addressing the current societal climate.
“While this year will forever be defined by a heartbreaking global pandemic and a transformative social justice movement, I am reminded of the tenacious, resilient spirit of our country, the NFL community, and you, the greatest fans in the world. Thank you for your continued support,” Goodell wrote.
The 2020 NFL Season is scheduled to begin at 7:20 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 10 when the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs host the Houston Texans at Arrowhead Stadium.