The NFL is moving full steam ahead with its plan for the 2020 NFL season after releasing the full regular-season schedule. While everyone around the league anticipates football being played in 2020, some are quite concerned about the league’s plan.
The upcoming season is expected to start on schedule with the Kansas City Chiefs hosting the Houston Texans to kick off Week 1 on Sept. 10. While few around the NFL expect delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many are worried about what happens once the season starts.
According to Bleacher Report’s Mike Freeman, several coaches around the NFL are “really nervous” about their own safety and the health of the players once the season is rolling. The coronavirus can spread quickly among all demographics, putting everyone at an NFL facility in danger.
While most players are willing to play, those with risk factors or family members with risk factors could be in danger of suffering the serve side effects of the coronavirus. The concern is even more prevalent among coaches, with many in the age group that are at far greater risk of dying from COVID-19.
According to Freeman, coaches across the league are now discussing whether coaching this season is worth the risks. In fact, one assistant coach said it wouldn’t be a surprise if several assistants don’t take part in the 2020 season.
New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton tested positive for the coronavirus in March, but made a full recovery. While that would likely be the case for many NFL personnel that got the virus, several wouldn’t be so fortunate. From significant health complications that require hospitalization and carry long-term effects to even the risk of passing away, coaches and players are aware of the severity of COVID-19.
The NFL will certainly look to put safety protocols in place and the league anticipates it will need hundreds of thousands of test kits. The measures to ensure the safety of coaches and players will likely be enough to convince many that the risk is worth it. However, don’t be surprised if a few players and coaches put their safety and the health of their family above a return to the NFL.