NFL DFS Projections: The Impact of COVID-19 on the 2020 Season
2020 has arguably been the most challenging year in the sports league industry due to the emergence of COVID-19. The pandemic is much bigger than we had earlier thought. Infections due to COVID-19 have been on the rise, and it is radically reaching far and wide. The COVID-19 pandemic could expand public worry to forestall infectious viruses to NFL players.
To state that 2020 has been a rough ride would be an understatement of the truth. The impact of the virus raised many questions about whether the NFL season would go on as arranged. But despite what happens, it will be a season unlike anyone has ever seen before because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Even with challenges, such as the lack of preseason, a diminished training camp, and various seasonal changes, it's still a new season of uncovering both the best players in the field and the most significant players and NFL fantasy picks.
The Start of the Pandemic
From a football viewpoint, the pandemic's effect began with team facilities shutting down because of social distancing measures. Hence, NFL players needed to fall back on innovative training strategies to remain fit. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about the league implementing testing procedures for players before they are even permitted on the training field.
Players who tested positive underwent quarantine until they passed conventions for a safe resumption. With other elite sports getting back to play, the NFL is planning to end a remarkable season.
Compared to other sports, the league encountered distinct challenges in implementing gameplay due to players' proximity on the field, bigger programs for a full season, and more. However, each precaution will be taken to guarantee the players' safety against COVID-19.
The Impact of COVID-19 on the 2020 NFL Season
With the resumption of the 2020 NFL season, it has become quite evident that the pandemic has already brutally affected the league as players keep on getting injuries at an alarming rate.
Here are some of the challenges that the NFL has had to deal with during this period:
NFL's Coronavirus Protocols on Testing Coaches and Players
NFL coaches and players were only eligible for games after being determined by testing to ensure that they’re free from the virus. Moreover, coaches and players will be banned from being in team facilities after games.
For this to work, visiting teams must have booked at least three or more hotel rooms for player's isolation if one or two tests are positive for the virus.
NFL Players Testing Positive for COVID-19
Major NFL players testing positive for the virus posed a major blow to the NFL team. During Week 4, the Steelers vs. Titans and the Patriots vs. Chiefs games were postponed due to players testing positive for COVID-19.
Some of these players include:
● A.J. Terrell, CB, Falcons
● Kristian Fulton, CB, Titans
● Jeffery Simmons, DE, Titans
● Adam Humphries, WR, Titans
● Cam Batson, WR, Titans
● Jordan Ta'amu, QB, Chiefs
● Bill Murray, DL, Patriots
● Byron Cowart, DT, Patriots
● Cam Newton, QB, Patriots
A Fanless Super Bowl
Fan noise in a Super Bowl game has a significant impact on the spectacle of the game. Moreover, home field advantages become much more apparent when these avid fans are around.
For this reason, a fanless game could affect the Super Bowl in ways other than merely the non-attendance of an energetic and joyful crowd. The lack of fans during a big event can have critical economic impacts and may reduce the chances of hosting a Super Bowl locally in the future.
NFL Clubs Being Fined for Ignoring COVID-19 Protocols
With the National Football League's resumption, all NFL clubs are required to follow all the pandemic safety protocols. Violation of COVID-19 protocols will lead to NFL players facing a $50,000 fine.
Not wearing masks on the sidelines during games will be viewed as breaching COVID-19 protocols. With the fear of a second wave of the virus, NFL clubs are advised to review and adjust the protocols.
The following adjustment will be employed:
1. There would be a limited number of players per week in tryouts.
2. A complete ban on gathering in and outside the club facility.
3. Increase the waiting period for free agent tryouts.
4. Conduct all meetings virtually.
Salary Cap
Another perspective to consider is the adjustment in the salary cap. The salary cap for the '21 league will be around $35 million lower than initially assessed. Since unused cap space turns over to the following season, teams are boosted now like never before to shed pay.
Takeaway
In summary, the pandemic has had detrimental effects on the NFL season and the sports industry as a whole. But despite the shortcomings and negative impact caused by COVID-19 this year, there still exists a way for athletes to play, and the most prepared teams will thrive.
