The traditional NFL offseason schedule has been altered due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In-person team meetings, rookie minicamps and optional team activities have all been delayed as the world works its way back to normal.
On Monday, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported that rookies and veterans who’ve changed teams may be allowed to return to facilities before June 26.
No dates set yet and no minicamps expected, but the NFL and NFLPA are discussing the possibility of certain players — such as rookies, and veterans who changed teams and need physicals — returning to club facilities on a limited basis before June 26, per sources.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) June 8, 2020
This potential early entry for rookies and newly acquired veterans would greatly benefit the Miami Dolphins.
Miami had three first-round picks, including prized quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
Tagovailoa is coming off a season-ending hip injury, so getting in the building will be key to his development.
Other first-rounders Austin Jackson and Noah Igbinoghene, as well as Miami’s other eight draftees will also benefit from in-person activities.
Beyond the rookies, the Dolphins were also busy during free agency.
Cornerback Byron Jones and linebacker Kyle Van Noy were the high-end acquisitions, but Miami also made other strong additions.
Jordan Howard, Matt Breida, Ereck Flowers, Shaq Lawson and Emmanuel Ogbah are among the Dolphins’ other new players.
Most teams don’t have this many key rookies and free agent signings, so this could be a huge benefit for Miami.
Perhaps it will give the Dolphins a leg up once the season begins.
