Redskins players might soon be able to meet with their new coaches — remotely.
The NFL and the players union reached an agreement Monday to conduct a voluntary virtual offseason, starting as soon as next Monday, according to multiple reports. That means that — even though players and teams can’t meet in person due to the coronavirus pandemic — teams can be in contact with their players and begin distributing offseason materials, if they choose.
According to Yahoo Sports, players can also work virtually to earn offseason workout bonuses.
Teams and players have the option to participate in the program, ESPN reported. For teams without a new head coach, the offseason program can begin April 27. Teams with new coaches — such as Washington — can start a week earlier.
NFL facilities will remain closed until all 32 club facilities can reopen in accordance with “federal, state and local rules and regulations,” according to a league memo. The NFL shut down facilities last month, ruling employees had to work from home amid the pandemic.
This development will help clubs like the Redskins get up to speed, despite no in-person workouts. For example, it helps players like Redskins quarterback Dwayne Haskins, who is entering his second year and learning a new offense with offensive coordinator Scott Turner. Teams with new head coaches could distribute playbooks last week — the intended start of the NFL’s OTAs — but were not allowed to have further contact, ESPN reported.
Analysts had wondered whether the coronavirus pandemic would affect the Redskins’ quarterback competition as it was previously unclear when Haskins could get his hands on a playbook. The team also traded for Kyle Allen, the former Panthers quarterback who already knows Turner’s system.
Players who don’t have at-home workout equipment will be offered a $1,500 stipend to buy it, according to multiple reports.
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
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