Despite the fact that the NFL’s training camps are currently scheduled to open in less than two weeks, make no mistake — there will hardly be a “business as usual” component to a return to the practice field for the Miami Dolphins, or for any of the NFL’s 32 franchises this summer.
But, thanks to a report from Hal Habib of the Palm Beach Post, a little bit of light has been shed on how exactly the Dolphins are hoping to welcome players back to the team facility while promoting a safe and welcoming player environment. One thing that becomes apparent pretty quickly? The Dolphins organization has been busy.
Habib outlines a slew of changes to operations for the Dolphins — the team has doubled their locker rooms with barriers between stalls to allow for more distancing and personal space, Miami has hired their own infectious disease specialist. The operations of camp will be altered drastically as well.
It’s a new strain for Brian Flores, who takes pride in his relationships with his players, to tack on top of all of the other responsibilities that fall at the feet of any NFL head coach. With the concerns regarding player health amid the ongoing pandemic, the dynamics of getting the season started won’t be easy — as indicated by the NFL and the NFLPA’s ongoing negotiations regarding financial impacts, opt out clauses and more.
One thing you should count on in the Miami Dolphins being near the top of the ranks in their accommodations for the players — the Dolphins were the first NFL team to outline what their stadium would look like with reduced capacities back in May, they were the first NFL team to receive accreditation from the Global Biorisk Advisory Council and they’ve answered the call in preparation of training camp. Whatever comes next for the Dolphins, they’ll be ready to step up and answer the call.