NFL scouting combine organizers relent on bubble protocol, allowing support teams for draft prospects
After protocols intended to minimize risk of COVID-19 frustrated NFL draft prospects to the point where their agents threatened boycotts of the on-field portions of the NFL scouting combine, the organizers of the combine have reversed course.
The 324 college football players invited to audition for NFL jobs next week in Indianapolis now will be permitted to bring their support teams (agents, personal trainers, physical therapists, massage therapists and medical personnel) with them.
Initially, officials of the National Invitational Camp (the organization that runs the combine for the NFL) informed athletes and agents that only one medical assist member would be permitted to accompany players and only have access of them in select areas of the com one venue.
The officials planned to set up a bubble, restricting players from coming and going during their free time, which also both surprised and frustrated the prospects and agents.
A group of agents representing roughly 150 of the top prospects had discussed having their players only attend medical evaluations and interviews while waiting until their college pro days to perform on-field drills. This would have hurt the marketability of the combine, which airs on NFL Network and generates a good deal of revenue for the league.
A group of agents spent much of Monday discussing logistics with NFL officials, who wound up intervening and prompting NIC officials to relent on the bubble plans.
Players still are encouraged to wear masks and be vigilant. However, they are now free to attend meals with their support team while also receiving treatment and guidance on prep work for on-field performance.