NFL 2021-22 season outlook

The NFL reopening. This season the NFL more closely resembles something from the pre-covid era. The stands are full, and all that is heard is the cheering of the fans. There is a sense of normalcy when watching the new season. It is almost reassuring to see it. 

Last year, the NFL games seemed like something from another world. The stands were empty, and you could hear the teams in their huddle. There was much more of a somber tone and in many ways, it was just a reminder of how different the world was and in many ways is still.

 However, this year it can be seen as a semblance of hope of what the world is heading toward as the world begins to recover from COVID. Even now when you see the stands there are many who are wearing masks, also many of these stadiums require a COVID test before entering the games. The NFL is only through its first regular season week. Not all has been smooth in the preseason. There were some COVID scares and quarantines, and some fines from the NFL to players who did not follow guidelines. These fines are very major for these players and are something most of them do not want to face, so they are following the rules to play the game they love. 

This is also good for the fans who want to see their favorite players on the field in full swing. They want to see their favorite team playing their biggest rival and going all the way to the Superbowl. These are things that people are looking forward to, fans can escape the stresses of the pandemic and watch a football game with family and friends and have fun. Which is something that was hard to do safely for almost two years. This is a comfort for many who have been stressed and had felt as though they had lost a family tradition. The re-opening of the NFL is one of the most encouraging signs that the nation has had in a long time. 

Granted there are still many COVID precautions that are being followed. The majority of NFL players are fully vaccinated though there are many that are not, those that are not having to face more vigorous testing. As of July 22nd, 2021, 75% of the players in the NFL had been fully vaccinated. Those that are unvaccinated must quarantine for upwards of 10 days, while those vaccinated are required to show the result of 2 COVID tests before returning to the field. 

Many players feel that they need to be vaccinated to protect their career for the foreseeable future. Those that are not vaccinated have, for the most part, followed the required testing and precautions that they are required too. There are many other much more in-depth regulations if you are interested go to the NFL website and it will be one of the home pages. 

The NFL is underway! Already being though week one and partly through week two. Get out and show your support for your local and/or favorite team! It’s Football season!