Coronavirus Could Drastically Alter Chicago Bears Offseason Plans

The sports world is witnessing something it has never seen before. As the Coronavirus pandemic, first seen popping up in China, continues to spread, the sports world has begun taking drastic steps to protect its coaches and players. The NBA has already suspended league operations. College basketball and the NHL seem to be nearing a similar decision. This has shifted eyes to the NFL with many wondering what's going to happen regarding free agency and the draft. Two key offseason events for the Chicago Bears.

According to Michael Gehlken of the Dallas Morning News, the league higher-ups are having serious discussions about what to do. The draft is set to take place in Las Vegas, ushering in pro football's inaugural foray into Sin City. Typically it's an event that welcomes legions of fans with the glitz and glamour to go with it. There is a growing possibility that adjustments to that might be coming.

The first, the annual owner meetings in Palm Beach, Fla., is scheduled for March 29 to April 1. The draft, from April 23-25, is the other.

Many top NFL prospects attend the draft, taking the stage and shaking hands or hugging commissioner Roger Goodell. Meanwhile, a huge crowd of fans gather to experience the festivities in person. There is a real chance that attendance would be scaled back, representing a dramatic shift of the event. But again, no plan has been formalized.

A league spokesman did not immediately return request for comment.

“They’ll make the correct decision,” Davis said. “They won’t put anyone in jeopardy over it.”

Chicago Bears fans may have to wait things out

While the draft is the primary focus, the owners meetings are also another important event as well. Typically a lot of business gets done there regarding potential trades. The Bears are projected to be active on the trade market this year, seeking out possible options at quarterback, tight end, and other positions of need. If this virus issue continues to rise, then free agency might see serious discussions as well given the amount of travel it entails.

This basically means Bears fans could end up having to wait longer than usual to see what GM Ryan Pace has planned for helping this team get back to the playoffs. Not exactly something people want to hear. They've already been without football games for over two months. This would be prolonged torture were it to happen. Still, it will be interesting to see if the league comes up with alternatives.