Coronavirus: NFL opts for virtual 2020 Draft

The 2020 NFL Draft, initially scheduled for Las Vegas next month, will now originate from ESPN's Bristol studios.

The telecast will adhere to proper social-distancing guidelines, amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Draft hosts and commentators will be in-studio, with most analysts, reporters and other experts to contribute remotely from home studios.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell will announce the first-round draft picks from his home in Bronxville, New York.

"We recognise the challenging times we are living in, but we are looking forward to presenting the 2020 NFL Draft and providing some hope for football fans everywhere," said ESPN production vice president Seth Markman, .

"For the past couple of years, ESPN's NFL and college teams have worked together on our draft coverage, and it has been a win for our viewers. This year, we are further excited to collaborate with the NFL Network, creating an All-Star broadcast.

"We are also committed to producing the ESPN/NFL Network and ABC shows in the safest possible environment for our announcers and production teams."

The NFL previously announced the names of the 58 players who would participate virtually in the ESPN/NFL Network joint broadcast. Among them were LSU quarterback Joe Burrow - expected to go No. 1 overall - Ohio State teammates Chase Young (defensive end) and Jeff Okudah (cornerback), Alabama quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and Utah State quarterback Jordan Love.

The Cincinnati Bengals have the No.1 overall selection, after finishing the 2019 season with a 2-14 record. Their selection will be followed by the Washington Redskins, Detroit Lions, New York Giants, Miami Dolphins, Los Angeles Chargers, Carolina Panthers, Arizona Cardinals, Jacksonville Jaguars and Cleveland Browns. 

The Super Bowl-champion Kansas City Chiefs will draft last in the first round, 32nd overall.

The NFL will host a telethon during the draft, raising money for six non-profit charities engaged in coronavirus relief efforts.

Reuters