The NFL has pulled the trigger and officially reformatted the 2021 Draft Combine into a virtual affair. The decision, spearheaded by John Mara, was made to remain consistent with medical and public health guidelines (including the CDC). Of note, there will be no in-person workouts of any sort; all workouts will be held at individual pro days on college campuses. The NFL is still deciding whether to allow team representatives to attend, or just receive film, as well as the uniformity of workouts.
Medical examinations are currently in question. As of now, only a select few invited prospects will be allowed for in-person medical examinations with team physicians. Otherwise, the testing is presumed to be taken at nearby labs and facilities. This is subject to change.
The most intimate and compelling piece of the draft, the team interviews, is also set to be done virtually. Typically, teams are given 15 minutes with a prospect for an in-person interview. This year, all media, including news reporters, will be conducted virtually. Given the circumstances, universities are urged to conduct media junkets for their schools’ prospects and promote the draft. It is unknown, as of now, whether player agents will be allowed to attend the combine.