We have already seen multiple NFL players opt out of the 2020 season due to concerns relating to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
It’s going to be part of the process heading into Week 1 on Sept. 10. We can now add another big-name player to the list.
Chicago Bears DT Eddie Goldman becomes sixth player to opt out of the season
A Pro Bowl alternate last season, Goldman has started 63 games in five seasons with the Bears. He’s been among the top-15 interior defensive linemen in the NFL over the past two seasons, per Pro Football Focus.
There’s now been a half-dozen players decide to opt out of the season over the past 24 hours alone. Earlier on Tuesday, New England Patriots Pro Bowl linebacker Dont’a Hightower made the difficult decision.
Starting the NFL season amid COVID-19 pandemic
As we have seen around the Major League Baseball world, starting a season with the pandemic continuing to grow around the United States can cause a lot of issues.
It’s different with the NFL not planning on starting its season in a bubble like both the NBA and NHL. Teams traveling from city to city can cause some major issues.
As it relates to NFL players opting out of the season, those considered high risk will receive pay for the 2020 campaign. Others who decide to opt out will get a stipend.