As the coronavirus pandemic has affected the global sports landscape, the NFL continues to march forward. On Sunday, the league announced that the new league year — and free agency — would commence as usual beginning Wednesday.
On Monday, the NFL announced that it will proceed with the 2020 NFL Draft as planned for April 23-25. But all public events planned in Las Vegas will be canceled.
According to the league, they’re “exploring innovative options for how the process will be conducted” noting that the selection process “will be televised.”
NFL announcement on its draft plans: pic.twitter.com/ynRG3Bw6fw
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 16, 2020
Here’s the official statement from commissioner Roger Goodell:
“This decision reflects our foremost priority — the health and safety of all fans and citizens. While this outcome is disappointing both to the NFL and to the Las Vegas community, we look forward to partnering with the Raiders, the City of Las Vegas and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority for a future NFL Draft as well as evaluating opportunities for other major NFL events in Las Vegas in the future, including the Super Bowl.”
Chicago has eight draft picks, including a fourth-round compensatory pick that was awarded to them in exchange for Adrian Amos. Two of the Bears’ picks come in the second round at No. 43 and No. 50 overall.
With no shortage of roster needs, general manager Ryan Pace has his work cut out for him.