The NFL is set to release the schedule for all 32 teams, including the Baltimore Ravens, on Thursday. But with the coronavirus pandemic still ongoing and no clear end in sight, precautions are being made in case there’s a need for a shortened season.
John Clayton confirmed to USA Today Sports Media Group the NFL is scheduling non-conference games first. Those games can more easily be cut without impacting playoff seeding as much in the event the 2020 NFL season has to be shortened due to social distancing rules still being in effect.
The Ravens are set to take on the NFC East this season, which means they’d see the following four teams in the first four weeks (the order isn’t released yet).
- New York Giants at M&T Bank Stadium
- Dallas Cowboys at M&T Bank Stadium
- Washington Redskins at FedEx Field
- Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field
The NFL has already eliminated any international games for the 2020 season, deciding to play every game in the United States for the first time since 2006. NFL executive vice president and general counsel Jeff Pash had previously said the league has been planning to start the season on time and play a full 16 games in front of fans.
The league has allowed teams to start virtual offseason workouts but have yet to announce any decisions on the timing or look of training camp and the preseason yet.
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