Not surprisingly, the NFL has take the COVID restrictions to some of the highest levels seen at any event. Having successfully completed the season without missing games, the NFL was determined to ensure that their flagship Super Bowl event would not be detrimentally impacted by COVID. Many of the events scheduled around the community were either cancelled or moved to a virtual format. Those that continued in person were held in front of significantly reduced crowds. Most of the philanthropic events that are typically on the calendar were scrapped or held virtually, with much lower fundraising potential. There is a severe limit as to the amount of money people will pay to be on a Zoom call.
Each day the media comes to check in, we are required to provide answers to COVID questions using an app called Policy Path. The app asks questions about any potential COVID exposures and any positive answers require you to miss a minimum of 24 hours. In addition, there are some interesting signs seen around the Media Center. A few of our favorites are below.
Radio Row is usually packed in close quarters as celebrities, players, media and others wander through and get their opportunity to get on the air. This year, Radio Row is very spread out. Here is a photo of the layout from Sunday before everyone moves in. Event with the crowds, it is likely to be much more sparse than usual.
Even the major press conferences which are typically packed with media have an entirely different layout for this. With many of the events virtual, the media opportunities to connect in person are limited.
