How Effective are Virtual NFL Practices?

As NFL players and coaches adjust to the life of quarantine during the coronavirus pandemic, the Arizona Cardinals conducted their first virtual defensive walkthrough.

As many NFL players and coaches adjust to the life of quarantine during the coronavirus pandemic, the Arizona Cardinals conducted their first virtual defensive walkthrough. Cardinals team reporter Mason Kern details the practice and how well players reacted to the virtual session.

Read for the Full Transcript:

Madelyn Burke: As the NFL takes a new approach to the offseason, the Arizona Cardinals have been conducting virtual team meetings. But last week, the team held their first virtual walkthrough. Joining me now is SI Cardinals' reporter, Mason Kern. Mason, I know you talked to some of these guys afterward. How did they describe this experience?

Mason Kern: It went smoothly, in the words of linebacker Devon Kennard. It was a good experience, especially for the new guys to kind of come in. They haven't been able to see their teammates face to face yet. So even hearing their voices for the first time, in this kind of virtual setting. It all went really smoothly, according to Kennard and another linebacker De'Vondre Campbell. He said that Vance Joseph was putting plays on the board. Everyone's calling out their assignments from safeties, linebackers, corners, everyone getting the D line set. And it all went really smoothly. And apparently, when they all kind of going through this whole situation, they're trying to kind of bond in a way that is kind of unprecedented in terms of everyone's supposed to be going through. Otways and all these different in-person sessions, they're having to adjust. And this was just the first step in getting on the right track and making sure everyone is getting in the right place and learning the scheme, especially with all the new guys the Cardinals brought in this year.

Madelyn Burke: Absolutely. As you mentioned, all these new guys trying to learn a new system, a new offense, and a new defense. And luckily, they've got the communication at very least. Mason Kern, thank you so much for the insight.

Mason Kern: Thanks for having me.;

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