NFL coaches are able to head back to their offices starting today
Among the four major sports leagues in the US, the NFL is perhaps the one that has been impacted the least due to the coronavirus pandemic. Besides having to run a few activities virtually this year, there haven’t been major delays that could postpone the beginning of the 2020 season. Things continue to progress, and regular season and preseason games already have official dates. However, coaches were still forced to stay at home while managing preparations as per the NFL’s instructions. Yesterday, however, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell sent a memo to all the teams to let them know they are authorized to return to work in their offices and operate normally as of today.
Since some states and cities still have mobility restrictions in place, some coaches might not be able to return to their offices. But, at least on behalf of the NFL, restrictions were lifted so teams can start returning to their normal routines. According to Goodell, at least 100 employees will be able to go back to their offices, as long as everyone adheres to the established safety and health protocols to avoid the virus from spreading.
The commissioner addressed general managers, coaches and team executives in his statement, “This will advise that beginning tomorrow, June 5, coaching staff may be among the employees returning to your facility. As has been emphasized in previous advice on reopening facilities, this may occur only if your club has otherwise received [the] necessary permission from state and local governments to reopen its facility.” He added, “Coaches and other football staff, particularly those who may be in a higher risk category or who have concerns about their own health conditions are expected to speak with the club medical staff or personal physician about any special precautions or other accommodations.”
