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NFL Exec Says 2020 NFL Schedule Is 'A Litmus Test' to Adapting amid Coronavirus
May 4, 2020
The NFL is set to release its 2020 schedule within the next week, but Peter King of NBC Sports reported it could still change amid concern for the coronavirus.
Teams have been forced to adjust to numerous changes throughout the offseason, and the schedule release could be another test for organizations.
"I think you have to look at 2020 as an experimental year that is off-kilter," a team executive said. "It's a litmus test is how we adapt."
According to King, the NFL is likely making multiple schedules that could include a shortened season with each team playing 10-14 games instead of the regular 16. The season could also be pushed back as many as four weeks.
The league has said it plans to start the year on time with the first game scheduled for September 10 and the Super Bowl set for Feb. 7, but it has still acknowledged the pandemic could be a factor, according to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.
"If we have to make adjustments, we will be prepared to do so based on the latest guidance from our medical experts and public health officials and current and future government regulations," league spokesman Brian McCarthy said.
The NFL has already proved it can adapt to changes throughout the past few months with facilities closed, leading to the cancellation of offseason programs and in-person visits for free agents and draft prospects.
The 2020 draft was then held in a virtual format with players and team personnel remaining in their homes, but the league came through with an event that flowed relatively smoothly and earned record television ratings.
With restrictions still in place, teams are now set to conduct organized team activities in virtual formats.
Everyone involved continues to adjust to changes, something that could continue as we get closer to the start of the regular season.