By Ron Wynn
NASHVILLE, TN — Things remain in flux for the NFL, although league representatives maintain that the season will start on time. But last week they reduced the preseason schedule from four games to two. The NFLPA is pushing for a complete elimination of preseason games. The league had already cancelled the annual Hall of Fame game, which usually marked the start of the preseason. As a result of these changes, the Titans lose one road and one home preseason game. Thus far the regular season schedule has not been changed.
The league eliminated the first and fourth weeks of preseason. Historically the fourth game was when a lot of players whose status was uncertain got a chance to make a final impression as regulars usually didn’t play in that contest. It also may result in starters playing.more minutes in both the second and third games as that’s all the teams will be playing. The Titans will face the New York Giants at Nissan Stadium August 22. The last preseason game will be at Tampa Bay August 29.
Training camp schedules so far have not been changed. Veterans are scheduled to report by July 28. The NFL hopes that the extra time will help in establishing the necessary setup for various protocols and testing regarding the coronavirus/COVid-19 pandemic. The league has also not yet made a ruling on attendance. But with Nashville back in phase 2, it’s highly doubtful full capacity would be allowed for the August 22 game since the state of emergency won’t end until August. 29.
