NFL tells team offices to close for 2 weeks

Teams can conduct normal business during that period.

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NFL commissioner Roger Goodell defended his decision to postpone the Ravens game six days because of a coronavirus outbreak — and not do the same for the Broncos when a position group was wiped out. 

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell looks on before the Super Bowl in February.

Maddie Meyer/Getty Images

Due to concerns over the spread of the coronavirus, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell wrote a memo Tuesday telling teams their facilities must close for at least two weeks as of 6 p.m. Wednesday. Teams can conduct normal business during that period, NFL Network reported.

Until now, office hours had been the jurisdiction of each team — and dependent on local recommendations about whether or not to work from home.

On March 16, the Bears closed both their downtown offices. A limited number of staffers were allowed to work from Halas Hall, but coaches, in particular, were sent home. The league banned all visits to team facilities by free agents and draft prospects.

According to NFL Network, those still allowed inside facilities after Wednesday include medical staff; security and facilities management; and employees who specialize in technology for remote workers.

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