It doesn't sound like the NFL is too interested in delaying the start of the new league year and free agency, which will both begin on Wednesday, as scheduled. The NFL sent out a memo on Sunday announcing the news, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.
The NFL just sent a memo to clubs saying the league year will start on time, per source.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 15, 2020
There was some thought that the NFL might consider postponing the start of the new league year due to concerns over the coronavirus pandemic. The rest of the sports world, including the NBA, MLB, NHL, NCAA, XFL, and MLS, has halted in an effort to slow the virus' spread. The NFL did, however, announce this past week that it has canceling college pro days and pre-draft visits.
Many NFL teams, like the San Francisco 49ers, have shut down facilities and stadiums.
The free agency negotiating period will continue as planned on Monday at 9 a.m. PT with free agency signings kicking off on Wednesday at 1 p.m. PT. There are reportedly still some concerns over how those teams will conduct physicals with most facilities closed down.
NFL teams also have until 9 a.m. PT on Monday to use the franchise tag. 49ers defensive end Arik Armstead is a candidate to be tagged.
Pelissero reported on NFL Network that many teams reached out to the league about potentially delaying the start of the new league year. The thought is that the NFL didn't know if things would be better down the road versus keeping things set for this week.
