NFL halts FA workouts, reportedly bans players from social places

Teams won't be allowed to work out free agents until further notice while the NFL tries to limit the spread of COVID-19, according to an email obtained by ESPN's Dianna Russini.

Unsigned players - for instance, Jadeveon Clowney - can visit the office of a club physician for an examination if a team is interested. Players will be subject to screening and testing protocols once they join a new team, whether it be via free agency, trade, or waivers.

The NFL and NFL Players Association could agree to amend the procedures before or during the season. The two sides resolved several issues related to the pandemic before the weekend, clearing the way for training camps to get underway by the end of the month.

Players will also be banned from a number of social spots this season, sources told Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk. They can reportedly be fined for breaking rules, while guarantees in their contracts may be voided if they miss a game after being found to have attended any of the following places:

• Indoor nightclubs
• Indoor bars (except to pick up food)
• Indoor house parties with 15-plus people
• Indoor concerts
• Professional sporting events
• Indoor church services that allow attendance above 25% of capacity

The NFL regular season is scheduled to begin Sept. 10, when the defending champion Kansas City Chiefs host the Houston Texans at Arrowhead Stadium. The 2020 preseason has already been eliminated due to COVID-19 concerns.

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