The NFL and NFLPA have agreed to eliminate the 2020 preseason in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic and concerns over needless contact ahead of the regular season. In addition, the league and union have agreed to a reduction in team roster size, going from 90 players down to 80. The NFLPA informed players of the changes in a conference call on Tuesday, according to Mike Jones of USA TODAY Sports.
While fans have typically bemoaned preseason games in the past, the lack of sports of all types due to the pandemic has left many hungry for anything resembling normal sporting events. The loss of preseason games will also impact players on the roster bubble trying to make the final 53-man roster, making it more difficult for undrafted free agents and depth players to make their case for a roster spot.
In addition, the reduction in team roster size will further affect those players and teams looking to build the best group of players both for 2020 and beyond. For the Baltimore Ravens, who have 89 players on the roster right now, they’ll have to cut nine players before the start of training camp to be at the limit. While it makes sense some of the Ravens’ 21-man UDFA class will be the first to get cut, Baltimore could look to keep new players with potential over those that have struggled in previous years.
While rookies were to report for all 32 teams by today, full rosters are due to report by July 28. The NFL and NFLPA continue to negotiate ahead of the official start of training camp, which means we could see further adjustments in testing protocols, ramping up periods for practices, and potentially to some financials. It’s a fluid situation and we’ll continue update as things are decided.
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