New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy’s latest decision greatly impacts the New York Jets, Giants and MetLife Stadium events this fall.
The day prior to the rookie phase of training camp commencing has turned into a critical one for New Jersey football.
Due to New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy’s executive order limiting outdoor public gatherings, the New York Jets and Giants will play home games at MetLife Stadium with no fans (save for future developments).
The news hit the wire courtesy of a joint public statement on behalf of both organizations Monday afternoon.
Joint statement from #Jets and Giants: no fans at games—at least right now. https://t.co/NLPa2LGdjF
— Robby Sabo (@RobbySabo) July 20, 2020
“We support Governor Murphy’s decision in the interest of public health and safety and, until circumstances change, both the Giants and Jets will play our games without the benefit of fans in attendance,” the joint statement said. “Although we would prefer to have fans at MetLife Stadium for our games, we will continue to work with Governor Murphy’s office and will provide updates as necessary.
“We urge our fans to continue to take the necessary precautions recommended by health officials to stay safe and we look forward to seeing you at MetLife Stadium as soon as possible,” the statement continued.
Rookies are set to report to camp on Tuesday, July 21, 2020, with quarterbacks and injured players allowed to arrive two days later. The official camp start date for all 32 franchises remains July 28.
Over the weekend, numerous NFL players voiced concerns about the lack of precautions taken by the league throughout the COVID-19 crisis. While the majority of stadiums are still planning to house fans (at least in some capacity), football will be played at MetLife with no fans at all.
Jets training camp will also not be open to the public.
The statement ensures to detail that this can change depending on future circumstances. How this impacts fans (especially season-ticket holders who already committed to the 2020 season) is something that will unveil itself in the coming days and/or weeks.
The Jets and Giants will open the preseason against one another on Aug. 17 in an empty MetLife Stadium.
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