Although training camp is scheduled to begin in the coming weeks, players have expressed concern over the lack of safety protocols in place. Los Angeles Rams quarterback Jared Goff and defensive tackle Aaron Donald are among those that have taken a stand to ensure that the league does their part in making the 2020 NFL season come to fruition amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Goff took to Twitter as part of the players' “We Want To Play” initiative to make sure that viable health guidelines are established:
You want to watch football this year? Us players need to remain healthy in order to make that happen. The NFL needs to do their part in order to bring football back safely in 2020. Please address health and safety concerns so we can play football this year. We want to play!
— Jared Goff (@JaredGoff16) July 19, 2020
Donald doubled down on Goff's comments and is hoping the NFL can firmly address all the risks involved.
It’s a shame that the @nfl doesn’t care about doing their part to keep players healthy and safe. They need to make sure football can come back the right way. We have to look out for ourselves as well as our families. #WeWantToPlay
— AD_99 (@AaronDonald97) July 19, 2020
The players' concerns are certainly understandable considering how the NFL's efforts to play out the season amid an ongoing pandemic paled in comparison to that of the NBA's. Although reports indicate that both the league and NFLPA made headway on a number of issues, there were never any firm details on the testing protocols that would be in place or financial repercussions of those opting to sit out.
Unfortunately, these are the two biggest factors for players to consider before making their decision. The fact that the players are now seemingly taking a stand now is hardly a positive sign that the season will proceed as scheduled.
Rookies are set to arrive at training camp starting July 21, with the rest of the players joining them at some point in the following week. The timeline of the rest of the season could take a major hit if this period is delayed.
Follow Us
Subscribe