Postponing or canceling 2020 NFL season might have been the right decision

Not playing the 2020 NFL season as scheduled might’ve been the right move.

Whether you are an individual who works a 9-5 job, or plays in a sports league like the NFL, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected you in some way. You are likely concerned about your money, your ability to provide for your family, and other expenses. Unquestionably, you are also concerned about your health.

Athletes are no exception and some have taken action to prevent any issues. Before the 2020 NFL season, a number of players, including Patriots linebacker Dont’a Hightower and Bears nose tackle Eddie Goldman chose to opt out rather than to risk their health. Some, like Hightower did it for family purposes, while others chose to do it based on their personal well-being.

Regardless of their reason, based on the statistics of total cases after Week 4, those players looked to have made the smart decision to stay away from the field until they believe it is safe for them to resume play. Unfortunately, there are a number of player who are currently playing, that are neglecting practices put in place to prevent the spread.

NFL beat writer Paul Kuharsky reported on Wednesday that the Tennessee Titans were being investigated for allegedly breaking NFL protocol by holding workouts after they were told not to do so. These protocols came into play after 20+ members of the organization had tested positive for COVID-19, which led to the postponement of their Week 4 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

In addition, the New England Patriots are dealing with a potential outbreak after cornerback Stephon Gilmore tested positive following their Monday night game against the Kansas City Chiefs. Earlier in the week, quarterback Cam Newton had tested positive leading to speculation as to whether or not the game should be played. The game was moved to Monday instead of Sunday and here we stand.

The 2020 NFL season is starting to show tears at the seam.

Those who sat out this season are looking a brighter future than those who have taken the field. That’s not to say that everyone who has played this season is eventually going to contract the virus. In fact, there are several players who have followed rules to a fault and as a result, have yet to be affected.

For those who didn’t follow protocol such as the Titans, the consequences could be palpable, such as  the season potentially being forced to shut down, which could lead to potential dents in the players’ wallets. The worst outcome however, is contracting the disease and spreading it among loved ones, which could lead to a painful outcome.

As is often the case, we tend to make decisions based on how it will affect us. Those who chose to play took a risk and it’s more of a waiting game. For those who opted to sit out, it’s looking more and more like they made the right decision.

As for the Titans, they wanted us to remember them. For sure they will be remembered, but for all the wrong reasons.