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NFL Prepares For Virtual Draft With Technological Precautions

HOUSTON, TX - FEBRUARY 01: NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell speaks with the media during a press conference for Super Bowl 51 at the George R. Brown Convention Center on February 1, 2017 in Houston, Texas.

After disputes regarding the postponement of the NFL Draft by the general managers’ subcommittee due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, the league office confirmed Tuesday that the draft would be go on as scheduled from April 23-25 with all teams drafting from their respective homes. The NFL is taking precautions when it comes to technology mishaps by installing safeguards to assure teams that picks or trades won’t be jeopardized in the case of a technological error.

League sources said there will be several tests of the NFL’s system prior to April 23. One aspect will include a conference call with all 32 teams that will be operational throughout the draft. This ensures that general managers will be able to announce a trade or draft pick through their landline if there internet connection is interrupted. The other option allows for transactions and draft selections to be sent via email.

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The NFL will reportedly be more lenient with time constraints, especially if a technological problem is delaying a team’s draft process. Also, the league will be informed if two teams would like to make a trade and work with them to ensure there is a sufficient amount of time to get the deal done.

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Below is commissioner Roger Goodell’s memo sent to all 32 teams on Tuesday that details the draft guidelines courtesy of ESPN’s Adam Schefter: