The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are taking the threat of COVID-19 seriously. According to Rich Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times, the NFL franchise has “made the decision to discontinue business-related travel indefinitely for scouts, coaches and other staff” due to the growing threat of the coronavirus.
There were reports that the Philadelphia Eagles had taken lesser measures on Wednesday, but this is the first instance where an NFL team has completely shut down all scouting and travel due to COVID-19.
This comes on the heels of the NBA suspending its season indefinitely following a positive test for Utah Jazz All-Star center Rudy Gobert. On Thursday morning, Jazz teammate Donovan Mitchell was announced to have also tested positive for the coronavirus.
Meanwhile, the NHL has at least temporarily asked teams to put a halt to all practices and team meetings, and March Madness is being held without fans — with many voicing the opinion that the NCAA Tournament needs to be shut down completely.