NFL has plans for pausing the live draft, backup plan for technical issues

NFL has plans for pausing the live draft, backup plan for technical issues

One of the big concerns for the 2020 NFL Draft is the failure of the technology being used to pull it off from remote locations all over the country. With team facilities mandated to be closed and GMs making their selections from their homes, the worry over a lost connection or miscommunication is very real.

NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy addressed that concern in a conference call with reporters on Friday. McCarthy indicated the league will have the ability to pause the draft and stop the clock for teams if there are any technical or communication issues.

In addition, there will be backup contingency plans in order for all 32 teams. Using the Lions as an example, if GM Bob Quinn’s connection is lost, there will be others in the organization authorized to make the selection while the team is on the clock, if it comes to that.

The NFL will conduct a mock run-through of the first round on Monday to test the system and see if any other adjustments need to be made.