NFL teams curtailing or stopping scouting operations

By BARRY WILNER AP Pro Football Writer

NFL teams are curtailing or completely stopping scouting operations as a safeguard against the spread of the new coronavirus.

The Washington Redskins, Minnesota Vikings, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New York Jets have ordered their scouts and assistant coaches to return home. Other teams, such as the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns, have cut back on scouting in what is usually a busy time for evaluating college players. The NFL draft is schedule for April 23-25 in Las Vegas.

"Due to health and travel concerns surrounding COVID-19, we have informed all of our scouts and coaches that they must return to their home bases and travel will be suspended until further notice," Redskins owner Daniel Snyder said in a statement. "The health and safety of our staff and players is our number one priority and we feel that these are the necessary precautions given the current circumstances."

Soon after, the Vikings announced a similar decision.

"We continue to closely monitor coronavirus developments and maintain contact with the NFL, health officials and other local professional teams," a team statement said. "Consistent with guidance issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, we have implemented precautionary procedures to protect staff and reduce the risk of acquisition and transmission inside TCO Performance Center (where the Vikings train).

".... We are also suspending travel for our coaches and scouts until further notice and reviewing restrictions on large public gatherings in the near future. These are uncertain times, and our priority is to protect the health and safety of our players, coaches, staff and fans and do our part to minimize the spread of this virus."

The University of Michigan on Thursday called off its pro day. Teams also are either limiting or eliminating facility visits by draft prospects. So are player agents.

"As an agent, it's my strong recommendation that my players don't travel for any team visits," Mike McCartney tweeted. "With 12 or more games played, an All-Star game and Combine for most, teams have enough information to make an informed draft decision."

NFL teams can bring in to their facilities for visits up to 30 players heading to the draft, though there are some exceptions for players from local schools.

There has been little talk of postponing or canceling the draft, though staging it in Las Vegas seems a long shot. The NFL says it is monitoring the situation. Holding the draft without fans as a televised event in a studio or conference hall could be an option.

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AP College Football Writer Eric Olson contributed to this report.