Despite the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak that is sweeping the nation and dominating the headlines, the NFL has continued to operate business as usual, providing some momentary relief for football fans.
For the Las Vegas Raiders, they have been busy in free agency as they have been one of the most proactive teams. The Raiders have already made several impact signings, most notably reaching deals with Marcus Mariota, Jason Witten, Cory Littleon and Eli Apple.
Las Vegas knew it needed to right the ship after their disappointing 2019 NFL season where they finished with a 7-9 record and third in the AFC West. Jon Gruden saw some improvement from his roster in his second year, showing the offensive scheme and playmaking he has become known for during his coaching career but it was clear that the team was in desperate need of a talent infusion.
While the 2020 NFL Draft is still set to take place between April 23-25, it will no longer be hosted in Las Vegas due to safety precautions. However, there is some good news as Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports that Sin City is being considered to host the 2022 NFL Draft instead:
Las Vegas is an option under consideration for the 2022 draft.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 31, 2020
When the NFL decided to cancel all public events leading up to the 2020 NFL Draft, it was reported that Las Vegas would get the chance to host the draft in a later year and it appears that 2022 may be it. The 2021 and 2023 NFL Drafts are being held in Cleveland and Kansas City, respectfully, while there were rumors that Green Bay was being considered for 2022.
This is, of course, unfortunate timing as the league wanted to kick off the Raiders’ big move by hosting one the draft in their new home, but that will obviously have to wait given the COVID-19 situation. As things currently stand, there are no plans to delay the 2020 NFL season, but changes to the offseason program and training camp will likely take place as a way to ensure social distancing protocol is being followed.
With the United States still grappling to find solutions to slow down the spread of coronavirus, things like football and professional sports should be put on the backburner as public safety should be the No. 1 concern for everyone going forward.
In the meantime, however, the Silver and Black have done a good job of executing their offseason plans and giving fans something else to cheer about during these stressful times.
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