Goodell: NFL Draft will be ‘fully virtual’

On Monday, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell informed all 32 clubs that all team facilities will remain closed “indefinitely” and the NFL Draft will go on as planned but be completely virtual, with coaches, scouts and executives all participating from their homes.

“We have made this decision for several reasons. All clubs will not have access to their facilities, which is contrary to the fundamental equity principle that all clubs operate in a consistent and fair way. Moreover, we want all NFL personnel to comply with government directives and to model safe and appropriate health practices,” Goodell said. “Our staff will carry out its responsibilities in the same way, operating in separate locations outside of the office.”

With staff unable to gather in the same room, all members of the war room will be forced to adapt and outfit their homes with all the necessary technology to get the job done later this month. Aside from making sure the WiFi is as strong as possible, the league is also doing their research on ways to hold three and four-way phone calls in order for teams to collaborate on trades.

With the new and unknown structure expected to be in place, there’s also a chance for teams to get some extra time, if needed, in the event of a “technical difficulty” where a team could use a one-time, 1- or 2-minute “extra time” option.