The 2020 NFL Draft class for all 32 teams has had a difficult time getting acclimated to life as a professional. Outside of virtual meetings and interview requests, it pretty much has been life as usual. Since the coronavirus pandemic took its grip on society, all sports leagues have been put on hold until re-opening policies are put in place.
Fortunately for the NFL, they are in their offseason and are in no rush to make sweeping decisions on how they will return. Unfortunately for rookies, there have been no rookie minicamps, Organized Team Activities (OTAs) or mandatory minicamp.
In other words, they will be heading into training camps, whenever that is, as green as can be. Think about the whirlwind of information, meetings and responsibilities which will be taking place in late July when these rookies are finally permitted to join their new teammates.
Every year a select group of NFL rookies receive invitations to the NFLPA Rookie Premiere event, and the Steelers had two of their 2020 class invited. Those players would be wide receiver Chase Claypool and running back Anthony McFarland Jr.
Introducing our 2020 Rookie Premiere class!
These players have been identified by @PaniniAmerica as some of the most promising young prospects based on position, college performance and marketability: https://t.co/Iit2nXMTh1#NFLPARookiePremiere pic.twitter.com/aFVUx3xhPc
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) June 18, 2020
Proudly presenting, in its entirety, the 2020 @NFLPA Rookie Premiere Class . . .#RatedRookie | #NFLPARookiePremiere |#Classof2020 pic.twitter.com/EVfuVw4uoR
— Panini America (@PaniniAmerica) June 18, 2020