Add the NFL to the latest spree of major sports leagues canceling activity due to the threat of the Coronavirus. Specifically both the Redskins and Buccaneers have pulled coaches, scouts and players from traveling until the Coronavirus is contained and/or eradicated.
This week saw all major sports league currently in season suspend play, prompted by Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert testing positive for the virus prior to playing on Wednesday night. Since then, Gobert’s teammate Donovan Mitchell has also tested positive. In response, the NBA immediately suspended games including games that were still yet to be played later in the evening. Thursday saw all collegiate sports, the NHL, and MLS follow suit. Also, the MLB is preparing to make a statement tonight that is expected to announce the suspension of the remaining spring training games.
While the NFL is in its off season, there are still activities that players and personnel routinely attend. With the new league year prepared to start on March 18th, it will be interesting to see how contract negotiations and player physicals will be conducted. The league announced that it would not be altering any of the schedule in the new league year.