Roger Goodell Says NFL Plans to Release 2020 League Schedule by May 9

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell remains committed to having the 2020 schedule released by May 9. 

Appearing on The Rich Eisen Show, Goodell said the league is "working toward" staying on a normal schedule amid the coronavirus pandemic: 

ESPN's Chris Mortensen reported on Thursday that the NFL is still discussing contingency plans and adjustments to the schedule "will be made, as and if necessary."

Goodell has consistently maintained the league is planning to play games this fall. He said in a Facetime call with Ankur Jain earlier this month that's "our hope, and that's our planning."

There have been indications the NFL is buying itself some leeway in the event that the upcoming season has to be delayed and/or shortened. The schedule is typically released the week prior to the draft, but the draft will come first this year (April 23-25). 

Per Mark Maske of the Washington Post, two major contingency plans being discussed by the NFL are a shortened season and playing games without fans in the stands. 

The 2020 NFL regular season is scheduled to begin on Thursday, Sept. 10.