Here is the crux of the memo that just went out to teams from the NFL regarding coaches being back in the building safely. Still no players, but a reason for optimism. pic.twitter.com/A8LyqqHJK3
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 4, 2020
The 2020 NFL season is inching closer and closer to fruition. A memo sent to all 32 clubs Thursday morning provides that coaching staff can begin to return to team facilities as soon as June 5.
“This will advise that, beginning tomorrow, June 5, coaching staffs may be among the employees returning to your facilities,” the memo reads, per NFL’s Ian Rapoport. “As has been emphasized in previous advice for reopening facilities, this may occur only if your club has otherwise received necessary permission from state and local governments to reopen its facility.”
As of this date, King County – where the Seahawks’ Virginia Mason Athletic Center is located – remains in Phase One of the state’s reopening plan. An application for the county to enter a modified Phase 1.5, which could lift some restrictions, is now pending.
The memo does provide a cautionary warning to those who could be more vulnerable to the virus.
“Coaches and other football staff, particularly those who may be in a higher risk category or who have concerns about their own health conditions, are expected to speak with the club medical staff or personal physician about any special precautions or other accommodations that may be appropriate for their particular circumstances,” the memo notes. “In addition, we will work with club medical staffs to implement a program of COVID-19 testing for the coaching staff and other football personnel prior to players returning to club facilities.”
This story is continuing to develop.
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