NFL News and Notes: League Extends Virtual Offseason

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the NFL has decided to extend the virtual offseason two more weeks. Commissioner Roger Goodell is hopeful that coaches will be able to return to the team facilities next week.

The NFL is working with governors and state agencies to determine who can come back to work. They are also reaching out to see if more players can start coming back as well, outside of the players undergoing rehab.

4th-and-15 Proposal Fails Again

The proposal to allow teams to try and attempt a 4th-and-15 play from their own 25 instead of attempting an onside kick failed among owners. It was said that more teams were interested in the proposal but not enough to pass it.

The proposal will be looked at again next year. Video review expansion for the preseason was passed in an attempt to help officiating.

Fans seemed to like the more direct approach, and better communication, for the XFL replay system. You get to hear exactly what the officials are discussing, and the process was quicker.

Personally, I’m hoping that they add another official who can start looking at replays before a challenge flag is even thrown to speed up the process. They are going to experiment with the eighth official working from the booth and being able to call for replays and reviews.

This will not carry over to the regular season. If it is successful, I would think it would pass along with the 4th-and-15 proposal for next season.

There were a few small rule changes. The league is allowing three players to return from injured reserve in a season, up from two.

The competition committee also added a rule protecting punt and kick returners. The rule now states that the player must now be given a chance to avoid or protect themselves from contact. It will be a 15-yard penalty like other defenseless player penalties.

Browns Add Former Colts Executive

Ryan Grigson, who was formerly the Colts GM, is now the Cleveland Browns’ top adviser. Andrew Berry, who is the Browns GM, worked under Grigson as the pro scouting coordinator.

Berry has now filled out his front office staff in his first season as a general manager. Grigson was with the Seattle Seahawks the past two seasons as a senior consultant.

Cleveland has also not been shy about their interest in Jadeveon Clowney, who was in Seattle with Grigson. Clowney remains unsigned and would pair well with Myles Garrett on the ends.

Ford Undergoes Knee Surgery

Dee Ford, the 49ers’ talented pass rusher, underwent a cleanup surgery on his knee. It is considered a relatively minor knee surgery but was a little more extensive than Ford had thought.

Imagine if Ford was playing on a bad knee all last season? How much more devastating can this 49ers defense be?

Up To $3,000 in Bonuses! Play Now
100% up to $3,000 Bonus

Bovada is our most recommended ONLINE CASINO and POKER ROOM for US players with excellent deposit options. Get your 100% signup bonus today.

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply