The NFL has scrapped the planned “bubble” concept for the NFL Combine on March 1, 2022 in Indianapolis after over 157 players threatened to boycott.

Munich/New York – The NFL has scrapped the planned “bubble” concept for the NFL Combine on March 1, 2022 in Indianapolis after over 157 players threatened to boycott, “Pro Football Talk” reports.

The Scouting Combine announced that all participants would be allowed to leave the Combine grounds at their own risk during their free time. Players who prefer to remain in the secure Combine area will also be permitted to bring authorised medical personnel with them.

The wearing of medical mouth and nose coverings on the premises is not mandatory, but is recommended by the NFL. Wearing a mask remains mandatory during medical examinations.

NFL Scouting Combine amends protocols, will allow draft prospects to leave restricted areas (per @TomPelissero
+ @RapSheet)https://t.co/GKXYGFmvRa

– Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) February 22, 2022

Player boycott was announced

Agents for over 150 players had announced a boycott of their clients after the “bubble” concept for the NFL Combine came to light. Now came the about-face.

The Combine will take place from 1 March in Indianapolis and will last a total of four days. During these four days, interested NFL teams will also have the opportunity to hold talks with the prospects. Unlike in previous years, all fitness tests will be conducted in one day.

However, with good performances at the Combine, promising players like Kenny Pickett and Co. could play their way into the teams’ notebooks.

The draft starts on 28 April.