What are the revised NFL Scouting Combine covid-19 protocols?

The NFL has informed draft prospects invited to the Scouting Combine in Indiana that they have changed their covid-19 protocols, and will no longer limit the participants’ activities to strict “bubbles”.

The league had previously announced that players would be “restricted to secure Combine venues during their entire time in Indianapolis for their protection,” or face the consequences.

“Players who violate this policy at any time will be disqualified from further participation and sent home,” according to the earlier memo.

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Strict bubbles = No drills participation

Agents of almost half the invited college football players were then reported to be organizing a boycott of the Combine’s tests and drills if the strict “bubble” policy would not be lifted, with the athletes only to participate in medical evaluations.

Another thorny issue was that the players would only be allowed to bring “one medical support person” to the Combine instead of a more comprehensive support staff which could include trainers, physical therapists, and nutritionists.

The changes in the guidelines would now allow the NFL hopefuls to communicate and interact with their support personnel.

Encouraged but not required

“We encourage all players to remain within the secure Combine areas at all times for your safety. However, if you would like to leave the secure areas during free time in your schedule, you are now permitted to do so at your own risk,” per the new memo.

Last year’s Scouting Combine was cancelled because of the covid-19 pandemic. This year’s event is scheduled to begin on March 1 and run through March 7.

The week-long invite-only affair gives draft prospects a chance to carry out physical tests in the presence of NFL general managers, coaches, and scouts.

Here is a list of the 324 college players invited to the 2022 NFL Combine.

NFL Scouting Combine draft prospects (324)