New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy announced on May 26th that professional teams working in the state can immediately begin training and even play games.
Separately, the NFL announced on May 18th that teams in locations where the restrictions were lifted were allowed to reopen facilities.
Within the area of the United States that is hardest hit with the Coronavirus, the Giants provided the following statement:
“Governor Murphy and his administration continue to guide New Jerseyans through this very difficult time. We have been in close contact with Governor Murphy’s staff to comply with the state’s protocols throughout. With today’s announcement by the governor, we are finalizing our plans to reopen the Quest Diagnostics Training Center.”
A Phased Approach to Reopening
However, do not expect a full return to normal as the Giants reopen their facilities.
“We will continue to have as many employees as possible working remotely. For employees who need to return to work at our facility, we expect to begin that process next week [read week of June 1], and we will do so in a systematic and safe way that adheres to the state’s guidelines and NFL protocols.”
According to NFL protocol, the first people allowed to arrive back at the facilities will be any players undergoing treatment and physical therapy as well as the Giants trainers that monitor the treatment. OTAs and other voluntary meetings between players and coaches will continue via the internet.
The NFL is in control of this and is waiting for all team facilities to be able to reopen before it allows coaches and non-injured players to return to the facilities.
Hope Grows for Team to Come Together
One Giants’ player was quick to react to the welcome news. Xavier McKinney retweeted Governor Murphy’s announcement with a GIF of a smiling Denzel Washington mouthing the words, “My Man!”
Let’s keep our hopes up that the Giants will finally be able to get together as a team in the team’s facilities soon.
Let’s hope the safety precautions and the protocols prepared for team camps keep the players, coaches, families, staff, and team employees safe, healthy, and COVID-19 free.
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