The 2022 NFL Scouting Combine has adjusted its COVID-19 policies after agents representing more than 150 draft prospects began organizing a boycott of all testing, on-field workouts and interviews at the event in response to the league’s bubble restrictions, according to a memo obtained by The Athletic.
The adjustments, first reported by the NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, will allow players to leave the bubble during their free time or have approved medical personnel, athletic trainers and massage therapists join them in the secure areas.
The combine, which begins on March 1, will have "key changes designed to improve the overall player experience" compared to past years. According to a memo sent out to prospects, there will be "fewer days on site, reduced testing schedule, new communication platform, scheduled medical examination, customized meal options/timing, single room accommodations and secure environment to reduce distractions and help limit potential COVID exposure."
Players were set to be able to invite one "medical support person" to assist. If approved, that individual would be allowed access to a "specific location" inside the bubble to meet with the player when their schedule allows. Players who violated this policy would "be disqualified from further participation and sent home."
Representatives from 14 agencies agreed to come together over the restrictions and were preparing for a boycott announcement on Monday, sources told The Athletic. Collectively they represent 157 players, including several high-profile prospects. That some of their clients would be unable to properly train leading up to their day before team evaluators is part of the concern. Players have their respective school's pro day to fall back on if they participate in the potential boycott.
The NFLPA issued a statement late Sunday night.
"We have spoken to several agents to reinforce our long standing opposition to the NFL Scouting Combine and agree and support the decisions by those to not attend. The combination of the NFL's proposed 'bubble' and fact that we still have an antiquated system of every team doctor examining players and having them perform yet again needs serious modification or elimination.
"While we do not represent these players we have advocated for their rights to fair treatment."
Those issues, however, seem to have been addressed with policy changes.
(Photo: Robin Alam / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Agent Mike McCartney speaks out on the NFL Scouting Combine.
As an agent, I struggle with the combine. Players get optimal nutrition & rest for games. The combine? Almost the opposite. Improper rest & diet, then tested in a cold, sterile environment. It’s part of why guys test better at Pro Days. And somehow, the NFL has now made it worse.
— Mike McCartney (@MikeMcCartney7) February 21, 2022