NFL could consider bubble format for playoffs
The NFL could consider using a bubble format for its playoffs, but would not use centralized locations like in other leagues.
NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said Wednesday that playoff teams would isolate in their home cities, and visiting clubs would not leave the so-called bubble until traveling out of market.
According to ESPN and The Athletic, New Orleans Saints coach Sean Payton brought up the idea of a bubble setting in a recent competition committee call.
“All options are on the table,” said Troy Vincent, NFL executive vice president of football operations, according to ESPN.
Saints’ HC Sean Payton recommended using a postseason bubble on a recent competition committee call, and the NFL isn’t ruling it out. “All options are on the table,” said NFL Executive Vice President of Football Operations Troy Vincent.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 19, 2020
Troy Vincent said Sean Payton raised the idea of a bubble for the NFL postseason. It is something the competition committee will look into more, and all options are all on the table.
— Lindsay Jones (@bylindsayhjones) August 19, 2020
The NHL and NBA are playing their postseasons in centralized locations, with the NHL in Toronto and Edmonton, Alberta, and the NBA just outside of Orlando, Florida. Also, the WNBA is playing its regular season and postseason in Bradenton, Florida.
Major League Baseball is playing in home stadiums, but COVID-19 outbreaks have canceled or postponed several games, raising the possibility of a playoff bubble for that sport.
Like baseball, the NFL will play in home stadiums this season. The Raiders will play their debut season at Allegiant Stadium with no fans.
Staff reporter Mick Akers contributed to this report.
Contact reporter Mark Anderson at manderson@reviewjournal.com. Follow @markanderson65 on Twitter.
