NFL training camps will start on time this season, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
Under the collective bargaining agreement, the NFL will have rookies report on Tuesday, July 21. Quarterbacks and injured players are to report on July 23, with the full team expected to report on July 28.
For Baltimore, that means their 10-man 2020 NFL Draft class and UDFAs will be on an NFL practice field for the first time this week. It will be the first time the coaching staff and front office has seen their newest additions in person since before the draft. Under usual circumstances, the rookies would have already been in the facility for rookie minicamps and OTAs, with training camp being the final and longest stretch of practice time. However, with the coronavirus pandemic causing restrictions to social distancing, Baltimore closed the Under Armour Performance Center in March, reopening to some staff and coaches initially late in May, following league protocols.
Currently, the Ravens have eight of their 10 2020 NFL Draft picks under contract, with linebacker Malik Harrison the most recent to sign. First-round linebacker Patrick Queen and third-round wide receiver Devin Duvernay are the only two picks that remain unsigned from the group.
There are still some negotiations happening between the NFL and NFLPA regarding training camp and protocols, however. According to Pelissero, only 20 players are allowed in the facility at a time “until the NFLPA signs off on infectious disease emergency response plans.” Doug Farrar of Touchdown Wire broke down what the NFLPA discussed in their recent phone call with reporters, giving more insight into many of the points the league and union currently disagree on.
It will be interesting how things will shake out between the NFLPA and NFL, and what impact that has on training camp and the preseason. But for now, players should be getting ready to put on their helmets.
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