Donald Trump is reportedly convinced the coronavirus pandemic will not delay the NFL season.
According to ESPN, the president expressed his optimism during a recent conference call with professional sports commissioners, including the NFL's Roger Goodell and the NBA's Adam Silver. Sources say Trump expressed his belief that fans would be "back in stadiums and arenas by August and September," which would theoretically allow the 2020 NFL season to begin as scheduled.
ESPN's Adam Schefter and Adrian Wojnarowski pointed out that it's unclear if medical experts believe this timeline is realistic.
The NFL has closed all team facilities in a wake of the health crisis, but opened free agency negotiations last month, as planned. The league is also reportedly preparing to hold a virtual 2020 draft in the upcoming weeks, followed by the annual league meeting in Florida.
During his call with commissioners, Trump reportedly suggested tax credits for people who attend major league sporting events. The proposed measure would allow deductions for concessions and ticket purchases, which could encourage fan turnout and help fuel the economy.
Trump addressed his conversation with the commissioners during Saturday's White House press briefing.
"They want to get back. They've got to get back .... We want to get back soon, very soon," Trump told reporters. "We have to open our country again."
