It’s a strange time right now with everything going on. There are currently no sports live sports on TV but in a few weeks the NFL is going to provide entertainment to the millions of sports fans across the country with the NFL draft.
Now, things are going to be a little different than what teams, players and even us fans are used to. The draft originally supposed to be held in Las Vegas April 23 – 25, will now be held in a fully virtual format according to a memo from commissioner Roger Goodell that was sent to all 32 teams yesterday.
Teams were informed that personnel were to be in separate locations and not to gather together to conduct the draft. Personnel are to use their phones and internet to communicate. To ensure that the NFL is in compliance with stay at home regulations due to COVID-19, the league and club facilities are remained closed until further notice. Which is why team personnel are preparing to conduct the draft from the comfort of their homes, outside of their facilities.
Technology is going to be crucial for teams to be able to communicate with their personnel. The draft will have more of a focus on players and the 32 NFL clubs than what we are use to seeing. Packers President Mark Murphy stated after the announcement, “In many ways, the draft will be like it was years ago before it became a major public event.” Very true, very true.
Through the use of technology, fans should still get a good viewing experience. As teams set up their virtual war rooms, they will utilize cameras to be able to interview top NFL personnel. Drafted players would presumably be interviewed through phone calls or video services.
Roger Goodell stated, “The league’s main priorities are the health and safety of everyone involved with the draft and to ensure that the draft is held in a manner that is equitable to all teams.”
In a few weeks, for several hours each day, the NFL will take our minds away from current events and hold its draft virtually. It will be feel different but we will be able to escape into the sports world momentarily.
Go Pack Go!!
Anthony Haag is a writer for PackersTalk.com. He has been a Packers fan since the day he was born and truly bleeds green and gold. He makes annual visits to Lambeau Field and has attended his fair share of games. You can follow Anthony on Twitter at @anthony_haag
