NFL coaches could be back at facilities in the next week

The NFL allowed its clubs to start re-opening their facilities on May 19th, but there were limitations and the number of employees — no more than 50 percent of total staff, and no more than 75 employees total. The league announced on Thursday an expansion of what parts of team facilities can open, and also offered a timeline for coaches to return to facilities.

Coaches and players that are not rehabbing an injury are currently not allowed to be part of the 75-employee group at a facility. The league said it expects next week for clubs to be permitted to include members of their coaching staff among the employees permitted to resume work in the club facility. It is notable that not all teams have re-opened facilities, so it is possible not all teams will be able to have their coaches return to club facilities.

Players remain unable to return while the NFLPA and NFL owners negotiate protocols that will allow for “at least some players to return” to facilities. Teams are in the midst of their offseason workout programs, but they have remained virtual to date. Some teams, like the Saints, have decided to not have the players back until training camp. Others are likely to push for players being physically in place as soon as possible. That will all depend on what the players and owners can agree to.