NFL makes significant change to Combine rules

The NFL has backed down on restrictions around the annual scouting combine after being faced with a reported revolt from prospects and agents.

On Monday, the league sent out a memo to potential combine participants notifying them that restrictions would be relaxed for next month’s showcase. That means players will not be expected to remain in a bubble and are free to exit the combine itself if they wish to do so.

Combine has been “unbubbled” for players in attendance, per a memo sent out tonight. pic.twitter.com/916Up4E8LB

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 21, 2022

The original plan outlined by the league was to implement a bubble environment for this year’s combine in which prospects would not be permitted to leave the premises of the event. That went over badly, and the NFL actually faced a boycott from top prospects and their agents if the rules were not changed.

The NFL had little choice but to reassess or risk the combine becoming a total non-event. While many players may still opt against on-field workouts, this certainly increases the likelihood that some will do the usual set of drills.

Photo: Apr 29, 2021; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell announces the final pick of the 2021 NFL Draft for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at First Energy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports